Support Our Community’s Creative Future

The OCL Vision

At Olney Culture Lab (OCL), we believe that culture can be a catalyst for community development and social change.

Our Story

Here's why this work in Olney matters...

Olney Culture Lab of CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia was founded in January 2014, after the conclusion of ArtsRising, the initiative that served as an incubator for what would become Olney Culture Lab (OCL). Our mission is to celebrate cultural assets by designing and producing events and programs that showcase the multitude of diverse cultural expression found in the greater Olney neighborhood of Philadelphia. By strengthening networks in the community and creating strategic alignment of cultural assets and resources, we increase social capital and a sense of civic pride. Rooted in partnership and collaboration as our "North Star," and centered on the Olney neighborhood as our creative muse and inspiration, we produce events & programs, curate ongoing projects & partnerships, and collaborate with local stakeholders to showcase and shine a light on the arts, culture, and people of this diverse and dynamic community. With your help in these tenuous times, when politics and culture clashes often divide and fracture communities, Olney Culture Lab is celebrating the rich cultural diversity of Philadelphia's Olney neighborhood. As a project of CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia, we create spaces where residents, artists, and organizations come together to showcase what makes our community unique. From signature festivals to intimate collaborations, we strengthen networks and build civic pride through the power of arts and culture.

What Happens When You Give to OCL?

Community Co-Creation
We bring together diverse perspectives and talents to create programming that reflects our community's multifaceted identity.Show or explain what your intention is with each milestone of your funding goal and how your supporters will be informed or updated on it.

Artistic Excellence and Innovation
We pursue high-quality artistic expressions that push creative boundaries while ensuring our programming remains accessible to all community members regardless of physical, economic, or social barriers.

Place-Making & Keeping
We cultivate a deep sense of place and belonging by highlighting the richness that exists within our neighborhood.

Cultural Celebration
We honor and amplify the diverse cultural expressions that make our community unique, believing that cultural heritage is a source of strength and identity.

Economic Empowerment through Arts & Culture
We recognize the power of creative and cultural expression as economic drivers for our community. We strive to create pathways for artists, cultural practitioners, and residents to build sustainable livelihoods, develop transferable skills, and access economic opportunities through our programming and partnerships.

Sustainable Impact
We support environmental stewardship through creative engagement and develop programs and partnerships designed to create lasting positive change in our community's social fabric and cultural landscape.

Collins Shop Rite Mural Dedication - January 2025 Photographer Paola Nogueras

Support Our Community’s Creative Future

Questions? Contact Us.