Whitaker Center
Our mission - To serve as the center for scientific, artistic, cultural and educational activities to enhance the region's quality of life and economic vitality.
For over 20 years, local community leaders, business leaders, city planners, art associations and government officials had dreamed of a cultural center in downtown Harrisburg.
In 1993, a small group of these dedicated leaders began to meet. Soon, initial funding in the form of generous grants from the City of Harrisburg and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania were obtained. Other forward-thinking individuals, foundations and corporations began to provide gifts to the Leadership Gifts Campaign under the honorary chairmanship of Alex Grass. Over the years, much work, many people, hundreds of businesses, thousands of hours of planning and millions of dollars of funding gave strength to the dream.
In September, 1997, ground was broken on the corner of Third and Market Streets in the heart of downtown Harrisburg and Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, a $52.7 million public-private partnership, was born.
On September 9, 1999, Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts opened its doors for the first time, welcoming its visitors to a unique experience in education and entertainment. It was named in memory of the founder of AMP Incorporated, Uncas A. Whitaker and his wife Helen F. Whitaker, in recognition of over $8 million contributed by The Whitaker Foundation and the Helen F. Whitaker Fund.
Mayor Stephen R. Reed, an integral part of this project from day one, has proudly referred to Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts as "Harrisburg's Crown Jewel".
The hard work and search for funding continue. Under the able leadership of Harold A. McInnes, Chairman of the Board for the last six years, the Capital Campaign for Whitaker Center is close to its $52.7 million goal. Thanks to the support of many visionaries throughout Pennsylvania and the surrounding region. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the City of Harrisburg and Dauphin County as well as over 300 corporations, foundations and individuals, have invested in Whitaker Center, a cultural center which directly impacts the area in which they live, work or serve.
The official registration and financial information of the Capital Center for the Arts, Science and Education, Inc. may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, 1.(800).732.0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
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