Brief History

The Father Ryan Arts Center has its origins in the outcome of the 1994 Sanders Consent Decree, which sought to address discrimination in public housing throughout Allegheny County. McKees Rocks was identified as one of seven communities in Allegheny County cited in a housing discrimination lawsuit filed by Cheryl Sanders and residents of low-income public housing plans in Allegheny County. The suit charged that a disproportionate share of these housing plans were located in a handful of communities in Allegheny County. On behalf of the people of McKees Rocks, Focus on Renewal (F.O.R.) applied to The Sanders Task Force and was awarded $800,000. As the steward of the settlement funds, FOR rallied residents to determine how the settlement funds should be used. Unanimously, the community called for a place to come together and express ideas, share local traditions and grow culturally resulting in the creation of the Father Ryan Arts Center.

A Place for the Arts

The Father Ryan Arts Center is a state-of-the-art, multi-level facility in the heart of McKees Rocks providing unmatched resources in all facets of artistic education, enrichment and entertainment. Located in the heart of McKees Rocks, the arts center will serve residents throughout the region. Fully accessible to persons with disabilities, the Father Ryan Arts Center.

Mission Statement

The mission of Focus On Renewal is to empower the development of the spirit, mind, and body of individuals that they may live their lives in a dignified and fully human way.

Vision Statement

The vision of Focus On Renewal is realized through an ongoing commitment to the building of community. F.O.R. develops and implements holistic services to meet the diverse needs of individuals. F.O.R. provides a continuum of care through all of the life stages and strives to build resilience through advocacy and education.