About Us

Phyllis Wheatley Community Center has been a cornerstone of the North Minneapolis community for 100 years, providing programs and services that empower individuals and families. From early childhood education to youth development and family support, PWCC continues to uplift and transform lives in pursuit of equity, opportunity, and empowerment for all. In 2024, PWCC celebrated its centennial year of service to the North Minneapolis community. Our mission: We create pathways for individuals to discover their strengths and take control of their futures.

Our History

Minneapolis, 1924 — The United States at the height of Jim Crow law, a time when segregation was the norm and racism codified, a place where being Black put one at enormous risk, a group of forward-thinking women from the Minneapolis WCA Foundation decided they needed to act.

Upon discovering that young Black women coming to the city to study at the University of Minnesota were barred from dorms and had no place to stay, the women took matters into their own hands: they raised funds, secured a space, and on October 17, 1924, they opened the Phyllis Wheatley Settlement House in North Minneapolis—the city’s first organization dedicated to uplifting African Americans.

What began as a boarding house for college women quickly became much more. The Wheatley evolved into a vibrant hub for the Black community, where activists, educators, and entertainers gathered. It became a place to work, play, learn, and advocate for equality in the face of systemic racism.

Today, the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center continues this mission, offering programs that support children, youth, families, and elders. They focus on helping individuals build skills, connect with others, and take charge of their futures.

Introducing our new Executive Director, David Hunter II

David Hunter, Phyllis Wheatley Community Center's Executive Director

Phyllis Wheatley Community Center (PWCC) is thrilled to announce the appointment of David Hunter II as its new Executive Director, effective January 6, 2025. David’s leadership marks an exciting chapter for PWCC and a significant milestone for the North Minneapolis community.

A proud North Minneapolis native and former participant in PWCC programs, David brings a deeply personal connection to the organization’s mission. Growing up in the neighborhood, David attended Bethune Elementary School and built a legacy of community engagement that he now brings full circle in his new role. His appointment is not just a homecoming—it’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to transformation, hope, and empowerment for the community he calls home.

David joins PWCC with over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience. Most recently, he served as Center Director for Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge in Rochester, where he led recovery programs and guided teams focused on holistic growth. He also served as a Chaplain, providing spiritual and emotional support to individuals and families. Prior to that, David worked as a Counselor at the Salvation Army ARC in Minneapolis, where he connected individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction with resources to rebuild their lives.

Beyond his professional roles, David is an active advocate for social justice and reintegration. As a Board Member for the Second Chance Coalition and R3 Collaborative, he has championed initiatives to promote equity, collaboration, and opportunity for individuals reentering society.

“David’s unique ability to meet people where they are—paired with his servant leadership approach—makes him the ideal leader to guide PWCC into its next century of service,” said Scott Morris, PWCC Board Chair. “His empathy, understanding, and passion for our mission inspire hope and possibility for our entire community.”

David’s leadership philosophy is rooted in empowering others through active listening, mentorship, and collaboration. He has extensive experience developing strategies and programs that drive organizational growth, managing budgets, and cultivating relationships with diverse stakeholders. His expertise in public relations and fundraising has consistently surpassed annual goals, ensuring sustainable support for the communities he serves.

With his deep ties to North Minneapolis, David brings personal experience and cultural understanding to his work, fostering a shared vision of transformation and empowerment.

David is a devoted husband to his wife, Melissa, and a proud father of four. His dedication to family and community underscores his belief in creating a better world for future generations.

PWCC’s board, leadership, and staff warmly welcome David Hunter II to the Phyllis Wheatley family and look forward to the positive change and growth his leadership will bring to the community.