The St. Stanislaus Social Center, a cornerstone of Cleveland’s Slavic Village neighborhood, is undergoing a significant renovation to enhance its Community Center.
Construction at the site commenced in February 2024, with substantial progress made throughout the year. Construction is slated to be finished mid-April with a ribbon cutting to take place April 28. This project reflects a commitment to preserving the center’s rich history while adapting to contemporary needs, officials said.
Full Circle: A Leader’s Journey and the Transformation of St. Stanislaus Social Center
Established in 1961, the Social Center has long served as a hub for various community activities, including those organized by the Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus and Cleveland Central Catholic High School (CCC). Its multifaceted role has made it an integral part of the local cultural and social landscape.
John Simon, president of Cleveland Central Catholic High School and a key leader for this project, returned to St. Stanislaus in 2021. After a 40-year career as a business executive, he stepped into the role of president at his alma mater, marking exactly 50 years since his own graduation. His story is one of deep-rooted community ties and a commitment to revitalizing the educational and social spaces that once shaped him.
Growing up in the neighborhood, attending St. Stanislaus as a student, and later volunteering as a board member, he remained closely connected to the institution even while working outside the education sector. His perspective, having been both a student and a leader, gives him a unique insight into the school’s evolution.
“When I came back, I thought I knew this school as well as anyone,” he reflects. “But it was a real eye-opener. The community has changed, and the people we serve now are very different from when I was a student.”
Indeed, the Slavic Village neighborhood has faced economic challenges, and today, the school primarily serves children from working-poor families, officials said. Most students reside in Cleveland, with some from Garfield Heights and Maple Heights. Recognizing this shift, leadership has focused on securing resources to sustain and grow the school’s mission.
A Legacy of Investment in Education
Over the years, significant investments have been made to improve the CCC campus. A major capital improvement project between 2004 and 2006 resulted in the construction of a new atrium, additional classrooms, an auxiliary gymnasium and expanded facilities — an undertaking that exceeded $10 million.
Subsequent projects followed, including a 2010 partnership with Third Federal Savings and the city of Cleveland to develop a football field, leased to the school for $1 a year for 99 years. Another extensive renovation in 2017 addressed infrastructure needs, such as a new roof, air conditioning, and window replacements in the original 1921 school building.
Despite the ongoing construction, the school remained at full capacity, with an enrollment fluctuating between 400 and 450 students. Recognizing the need for further expansion, leadership embarked on an ambitious $10 million campaign to build additional space for athletics, performing arts, STEM programs and athletic training.
Adapting to Challenges and Moving Forward
Just as fundraising efforts were gaining momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, halting the campaign. By 2021, when Simon assumed the presidency, the board decided to suspend fundraising efforts, having raised $4.2 million in cash and pledges.
“We had to rethink what we could accomplish with what we had,” he explained.
Working with SA Group Architects, the team redesigned the project to prioritize key elements. Now, as the latest phase of construction nears completion — just weeks away from realization — the vision for an improved St. Stanislaus Social Center is becoming reality.
“It’s a very simple design, but the building has a big claim to fame in the neighborhood,” said Daniel Sirk, owner of SA Group Architects in an interview with Connection, the CCC alumni magazine.
A Symbol of Commitment
This transformation is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a testament to the enduring commitment of the St. Stanislaus community. Supporters, including longtime donors like Third Federal Savings, recognize the school as an anchor in the neighborhood. As the final touches are put in place, the renewed Social Center will serve as a beacon for investment in Slavic Village and Catholic urban education, reinforcing the school’s mission and providing future generations with the resources they need to thrive.
“This project is about more than just expanding a building,” Simon said, “It’s about expanding opportunities for our students, ensuring that they have the space, tools, and support to succeed. And for me, personally, it feels like coming full circle.”
Modernizing for Efficiency
A crucial part of the project has been the replacement of outdated 1960s-era windows. These new installations enhance both the aesthetics and energy efficiency of the building, significantly improving insulation and reducing energy costs.
Additionally, renovations have optimized office spaces, ensuring a more structured and efficient use of the facility. The athletic department now has a dedicated space, including an office and a small conference room for pre-game, halftime, and post-game discussions for officials.
Enhancing the Community Experience
Beyond structural improvements, the project also incorporates motivational elements throughout the space. The concession stand has been updated to better serve sporting event attendees, providing a welcoming and efficient space for fans and students alike, Simon said,
“We are urban, and we’re serving the kids we serve, and we know that, and that gives us an advantage in some way, you get a lot of support from people who believe in that kind of mission for our school,” he said.
Renovation Details
The Social Center renovation project encompasses several key improvements:
- New entrance and lobby: A larger, more welcoming entrance and lobby are being constructed to better accommodate visitors and events.
- Elevator installation: An elevator serving all three floors is being installed to ensure accessibility for all individuals, aligning with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
- Outdoor gathering space: Plans involve replacing an existing parking lot with a pedestrian-friendly promenade and outdoor gathering area, fostering community interaction.
These enhancements are set to significantly benefit both the school, the neighborhood and the parish community. The improved facilities will provide students with modernized spaces conducive to learning and extracurricular activities. For the parish, the updated Social Center will continue to serve as a central venue for events, reinforcing community ties.
Looking Ahead
The revitalization of the St. Stanislaus Social Center exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. By honoring its historical significance while incorporating contemporary enhancements, the community ensures that this cherished institution will continue to serve as a beacon of faith, education, and fellowship in Slavic Village for years to come.
“This project sends a strong message to the families, students, and other constituencies we serve in the Slavic Village community that we are committed to the well-being of our campus — now and in the future,” Simon said in a press release.
St. Stan’s Social Center will hold an invite-only ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 28.
We're celebrating four years of amplifying resident voices from Cleveland's neighborhoods. Will you make a donation to keep our local journalism going?
