WELCOME
Founded in 1900, The Conference of Churches is one of the oldest ecumenical, not-for-profit corporations in the United States. We began as a membership organization “in covenant” with congregations, based on shared Christian principles found in Scripture.
Since our inception The Conference of Churches has been recognized as a key leader that works to eliminate poverty in all forms. With this in mind, we began providing direct services to address systems of social injustice and poverty.
In our more recent evolution, The Conference of Churches is helping to redefine the role of faith-based organizations (locally and nationally) by reimagining the practice of community engagement and economic empowerment. Locally, with our acquisition of The 224 EcoSpace — we have become an anchor in the Asylum Hill neighborhood and a gathering place for creatives; the underserved; thought leaders; for social and business entrepreneurs and or those seeking health and wellness.
The 224 EcoSpace
“is a place where community organizing is modernized and an intentional entrepreneurial community is formed for neighborhood revitalization.”
The Conference of Churches has created a model of transformational leadership and social enterprise with the potential to guide other faith-based organizations seeking to maintain relevance in the 21st century. Many speak about creating an environment that fosters community development and engagement, but TCC/The224 EcoSpace is actually accomplishing this important work both in its 30,000 square foot space as well as in the greater community.
“Rev. F. Lydell Brown serves as the President & CEO of The Conference of Churches located within the walls of The 224 EcoSpace – its social enterprise.”
Our Value Proposition
Building on our 120 -year history of faith-based leadership, we provide the environment, support and social enterprise platforms to gather and inspire individuals who want to grow and facilitate positive change.
We Achieve Our Purpose of Transformational Change Through Our Three Platforms and Centres of Excellence
Health and Wellness: The LivingWell Centre
Fostering awareness of health and wellness through programs and services for mind, body and spirit/soul
Economic Development and Financial Stability: Business Growth Centre
Fostering a community of entrepreneurs dedicated to transforming themselves and building successful ventures that profit the community
Inspiration and Innovation: Collaboration Centre
Fostering community engagement and revitalization through hosting change makers in a space dedicated to creative placemaking
THE ACCESS DANCE
STUDIO PROGRAM
The Access Dance Studios Program is a financial assistance program designed to help dancers and dance organizations overcome financial barriers and focus on their craft. The program provides discounted rehearsal studio space to eligible dancers and dance organizations. The Access Dance Studios Program is a collaboration between the Greater Hartford Arts Council, the 224 Ecospace, and the Hartford Dance Collective.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Senior Leadership
Rev. F. Lydell Brown
PRESIDENT & CEO
A nationally recognized leader in community organizing and clergy engagement, Rev. F. Lydell Brown has served as Chief Operating Officer of The Conference of Churches for 20 years. In April 2022, he transitioned from [Chief Operations Officer] into the role of [Interim CEO], where he will assume The Executive Directorship of The Conference of Churches, and all of its programs. In December of 2022 He was appointed as permanent President & CEO by the board of directors
An ordained minister, Rev. Brown has served as a pastor for more than 30 years. Presently, he serves as the pastor and founder of Burning Bush Family Life Center. Rev. Brown is a graduate of the University of Phoenix, the Hartford Seminary Black Ministries Program, and the Yale Clergy Scholar program; he is also a highly skilled professional in facilities management and operations, and a nationally known community organizer. Rev Brown has also served on many boards, Community Partners in Action, The North End Catholic Charities of Hartford, President and Founder of The Concerned Black Clergy Council of Waterbury just to name a few.
During his time with The Conference of Churches, Rev. Brown has been pivotal in helping to update and expand the organization’s mission toward becoming a more inclusive, community driven organization. Rev. Brown assisted in the development of the 224 EcoSpace- a premier arts, health and wellness center in Hartford and a nationally recognized model of creative social enterprise for The Conference of Churches. Described as the first of its kind in the nation, the facility is “more than a traditional gallery, co-working space & technical assistance for start-up businesses, yoga, dance studio and performance sanctuary. We combine them all within our 30,000 square foot community of possibilities.
Find out more about Rev. F. Lydell Brown
www.bbflc.org www.revlydell.com | LinkedIn