In the heart of Tepe Park, a neighborhood in Evansville, Indiana, a remarkable transformation is unfolding. My name is DeAndre Wilson, and I have lived in this vibrant community for 25 years. Once a lively area filled with bustling homes and thriving businesses, Tepe Park faced a devastating blow in 1937 when the great flood swept through, leaving destruction in its wake. For 87 years, the aftermath of that flood left my neighborhood disinvested and neglected, leading to economic distress, high crime rates, and a persistent food desert.
Despite these challenges, hope began to bloom anew in 2020. Alongside my co-founder Merrick, we embarked on a mission to rejuvenate our beloved Tepe Park through a project we named Bedford Collab. Our vision was to create a shared-use commercial kitchen that would not only serve local food entrepreneurs but also spark a positive change within our community.
Acquiring a historic building, originally constructed in 1919, was our first significant hurdle. This space had seen various businesses come and go, and transforming it into a hub for culinary innovation was no small feat. The journey was fraught with challenges, especially when it came to explaining our concept of a shared-use kitchen to potential donors and why we want investment in our neighborhood. Many were unfamiliar with the idea, and we worked tirelessly to illustrate its impact and importance.
We emphasized that a project like Bedford Collab could breathe new life into our economically distressed neighborhood. It was not just a kitchen; it was a lifeline for aspiring food entrepreneurs who often struggled to find the necessary resources to start their businesses. By focusing on place-based initiatives, we aimed to empower our community and create opportunities for growth and prosperity.
With each step forward, we saw the vibrancy of Bedford Collab shining a new light on Tepe Park, a place often labeled as undesirable. Local residents began to see the potential for change, and excitement grew as we hosted workshops, cooking classes, and community events, all designed to support local chefs and food innovators.
As we continue this journey, we remain committed to our mission of revitalizing Tepe Park. The Bedford Collab is more than just a kitchen; it’s a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of community. Together, we are rewriting the narrative of our neighborhood and proving that with passion and determination, positive change is possible.
I look forward to sharing pictures of our progress soon, as we celebrate not just the physical transformation of our space, but also the rebirth of our community spirit. Tepe Park is on the path to becoming a beacon of hope, and I am proud to be part of this remarkable journey.
-DeAndre Wilson |Tepe Park in Evansville, Indiana
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