Impact
Edwards Foundation launches campaign for South St. Pete arts center
The nonprofit’s goal is to transform an existing site into a hub for youth arts education and community programming.
The Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts has announced the launch of its “10 for Tomorrow” capital campaign, a $10 million initiative to build a new community arts center in South St. Petersburg.
The project would convert an existing structure into a year-round performing arts and education facility focused on youth programming, family engagement and career development opportunities in the arts.
The campaign comes as Bill Edwards and his organization, Big 3, prepare to conclude their management of the Mahaffey Theater at the end of May. The foundation will continue its long-running Class Acts program on stage at the Mahaffey, while leveraging the new venue to expand its broader educational footprint across Tampa Bay.
Foundation leaders say the center will serve as a permanent home for its programming, and a centralized location for community access to arts education. The facility is planned on approximately 3.6 acres and would be developed in phases following acquisition.
The proposed campus would include space for youth performing arts training, after-school programming and summer camps, along with dedicated areas for media production, library resources and family-oriented activities. Mentorship and career exposure programs are also planned, aimed at connecting students with pathways into professional arts and entertainment fields.
Inside the proposed Bill Edwards Community Arts Center.
The foundation currently serves more than 25,000 students annually through its Class Acts initiative, which provides free access to live performances and arts experiences for schools throughout the region. The new center is expected to expand that reach by offering programming throughout the year rather than primarily event-based experiences.
The effort also reflects a broader shift in the local arts landscape. With the transition underway at the Mahaffey Theater, the foundation is moving toward a standalone model that allows for greater control over programming, scheduling and long-term growth.
Leaders say the South St. Petersburg location is intentional, positioning the center in an area where access to arts resources has historically been more limited. The goal is to create a consistent entry point for young people to engage with the arts, regardless of background or prior experience.
The campaign will rely on a mix of philanthropic contributions, corporate support and community fundraising. Naming opportunities are available.
As part of the campaign rollout, the foundation will host a free community event Friday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Mahaffey Theater lobby. The gathering is open to the public and will introduce the initiative to local residents, donors and arts supporters.
RSVP by calling 727-300-2000, or emailing Donate@billedwardsfoundationforthearts.org
Nick Smit
March 26, 2026at8:56 am
looks like its the Lakewood United Methodist Church
Eric Hernaez
March 25, 2026at9:25 pm
Proposed site is Lakewood United Methodist Church campus, a 3.6-acre property at 5995 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street South
Ethridge Eason
March 25, 2026at6:03 pm
Bill Edwards. This is Eppi
Let me know what I can do. I was your maintenance director at the club of treasure Island. Let me know what I can do to help. 7274854841.
Billy Miller
March 25, 2026at6:48 am
Story fails to mention possible location of proposed center. Seems like an obvious important fact that’s been left out.
Danny White
March 25, 2026at4:55 pm
What Billy Miller said.
HAL Freedman
March 24, 2026at11:17 pm
Thank you, Bill! YOU are a Class Act!