Lexie Grimes, Program Manager
5 months. The amount of time The MORTAR Building has been open, and barely less than my garlic plants have spent their days underneath my garden soil. I’m rather partial to a garden metaphor, so bear with me, and hopefully you’ll find a seed of joy along the way. Both The Building and my garlics have spent these last 5 months developing and strengthening to prepare for the growth that Spring graciously holds, while remaining present along the way. Much of this work takes place behind the scenes, and often requires us to remind ourselves of just how deep the roots that will lead to flourishing run.
I remember sitting in a room with my teammates at MORTAR a couple years ago as we talked through the “why” of this building project. I remember the sense of clear inspiration, vision, and purpose as we discussed together something we knew was about to stretch us all. People shared thoughts about legacy, about being part of the historical movement of people who have given so much in the fight for economic equity, about leaning into the strength of those who came before us in order to create a space that would open doors for those who came after us. Our CEO Allen has often quoted Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in saying, “If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” And there we were, in awe of the roots, in awe of what we knew they were capable of producing.
The renovation of the historic Durner Building had seen many iterations of the project for several years before this. It was even part of a larger stabilization project to preserve and breathe renewed life into historic spaces in Walnut Hills, the impact of which can be felt as you walk through the streets of the neighborhood today. Built in 1912, housing many small businesses and practitioners, such as the Conroy Business Academy (run by sisters, yay!), and later a Fifth Third Bank, this building is dripping with busy history but has sat empty since 1969. So many incredible people and organizations in Walnut Hills work tirelessly to ensure the redevelopment of this neighborhood is done with care and intentional focus on its longstanding commitment to being “A Diverse Neighborhood Since 1800.” More undeniably strong roots.
In this new community space and entrepreneurial resource hub, we’re providing numerous opportunities for connection, inspiration, education, and collective growth that ultimately support Black and minoritized entrepreneurs and creatives in their endeavors.
Spring feels incredible as more and more guests, members, students, and entrepreneurs share our new home. It is truly the community that brings these walls to life, and I’m in awe of what fruits can thrive when intentional space is handed to the Dreamers & Doers in our community. I’d say our sprouted MORTAR Building has certainly been stretching its leaves toward the sun this Spring, and we continue to learn, shape, welcome, connect, and grow daily.
If you haven’t visited The MORTAR Building yet, I hope you’ll come see what is growing here, and discover how you can be a part of it (:
