For generations, communities have embraced the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” In Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood, that philosophy became the foundation for one of the region’s most impactful community organizations.
As Homewood Children’s Village prepares to celebrate its 15th anniversary on August 22, the organization is reflecting on a decade and a half of investing in children, supporting families, and helping strengthen one of Pittsburgh’s historic Black communities. Founded in 2010, Homewood Children’s Village was created around a simple but powerful belief: when families and communities thrive, children succeed.
What began as a vision has evolved into a cradle-to-career support system serving youth, families, schools, and the broader community. Through collaboration, engagement, advocacy, research, and direct services, the organization works to remove social and economic barriers that often stand in the way of success.
By the Numbers
Fifteen years later, the impact is measurable.
The organization also serves as the lead partner for three Full-Service Community Schools in Homewood: Lincoln PreK-5, Faison K-5, and Westinghouse Academy 6-12. Through these partnerships, HCV helps connect students and families with academic support, mentoring, social services, tutoring, and enrichment opportunities.
More Than a Program
Homewood Children’s Village operates on a belief that children do not succeed in isolation.
Parents are children’s first teachers. Schools are critical partners. Neighbors, businesses, faith communities, nonprofits, and civic leaders all have a role to play in creating opportunities for young people.
That philosophy has shaped the organization’s work for 15 years.
From AmeriCorps mentors providing thousands of hours of support inside classrooms to college and career readiness programs, workforce development initiatives, family engagement efforts, and summer employment opportunities, HCV’s mission extends beyond academics to creating pathways for long-term success.
“When families and communities thrive, children succeed.”
Building a Stronger Homewood
The organization’s impact has also been evident during times of crisis. During the pandemic and subsequent economic challenges, Homewood Children’s Village expanded efforts to support families with resources, technology access, and basic needs assistance while helping students remain connected to learning opportunities.
Today, the organization continues working toward a vision where every child is nurtured from cradle to career and prepared to thrive in college, careers, and life.
Walter Lewis Leads the Next Chapter of the Village
Lewis joined Homewood Children’s Village in 2012 and became President and CEO in 2018, bringing a combination of scientific research experience, technology expertise, and a deep commitment to community advocacy.
Under his leadership, HCV has continued to advance its cradle-to-career model — a comprehensive approach designed to support children and families from early childhood through higher education and career pathways.
A graduate of Cheyney University of Pennsylvania with a degree in computer science, Lewis brings a unique perspective to the role — combining analytical thinking with a passion for creating pathways for young people to thrive.
Celebrating 15 Years of the Village
To commemorate this milestone, Homewood Children’s Village will host “15 Years of the Village: Honoring Our Roots. Building Our Future” on Saturday, August 22, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center in Downtown Pittsburgh.
The celebration will bring together supporters, community leaders, families, volunteers, educators, alumni and partners who have helped shape the organization’s journey over the past 15 years.
Join the Village: How You Can Make an Impact
A village is built by people who show up. For 15 years, Homewood Children’s Village has relied on the commitment of families, educators, community partners, volunteers, and supporters who believe every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.
Support Youth Success
Work alongside HCV programs through academic assistance, enrichment activities, mentorship, and learning experiences designed to help students reach their goals.
Strengthen the Community
From neighborhood events to family engagement efforts, volunteers help create connections that uplift not only children, but the entire Homewood community.
Share Your Expertise
Professionals can contribute their skills by supporting HCV's operations, programs, and organizational needs — helping expand the impact of the Village.
Become Part of Something Bigger
Become an official HCV Member, joining a network of changemakers committed to investing in Homewood. Or join the HCV AmeriCorps Program to mentor in schools.
In a city that continues to confront challenges related to educational equity, economic opportunity, and community investment, Homewood Children’s Village stands as an example of what can happen when an entire community commits to supporting its children and families.
On August 22, supporters, families, community leaders, and partners will gather at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center for “15 Years of the Village: Honoring Our Roots. Building Our Future.”
While the anniversary celebration will recognize the accomplishments of the past 15 years, it is also a reminder that the work continues.
It takes a village to raise a child, support families, and transform a community.