Page last updated 2/8/2001
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South Manhattan Development Corporation
South Manhattan Development Corporation (SMDC) is a not-for-profit community organization that was founded in 1982 by a group of neighborhood residents who sought to strengthen the Lower East Side’s businesses, organizations and cultural institutions. Since its inception, SMDC has creatively addressed economic and community development through job training, tourism promotion and commercial revitalization initiatives. SMDC takes an active role in the development and implementation of a variety of initiatives and innovative programs that assist and support Lower East Side individuals, families, and businesses.
SMDC’s mission is to revitalize the community through economic development, advocacy and coalition building, educational programming for youth and families, and cultural celebrations. In support of this mission, SMDC works to create and build upon self-sustaining programs and projects as it provides technical assistance, marketing and promotional services, and program development.
The Lower East Side Business Association:
SMDC is currently working to assist 250 neighborhood businesses that are not part of the Lower East Side Business Improvement District. Plans include the formation of a Business Association, marketing and promotional projects, and assistance resolving problems with governmental agencies.
The Vintage Thrift Shop:
In cooperation with the United Jewish Council of the East Side, Inc, (UJC), SMDC will open an upscale thrift shop early next year. Besides raising funds for additional community projects, it will also provide training opportunities for women who are entering or reentering the job market and are in need of employment skills that will allow them to advance into the retail market.
The Lower East Side Festival:
Since 1994, SMDC has organized and sponsored the annual Lower East Side Festival. This popular event, which is held in June is attended by over 25,000 people. More than 200 vendors sell a wide variety of crafts and refreshments. There is continuous entertainment on two stages, a petting zoo, a carnival, and a health fair. As an additional benefit, this event showcases our neighborhood and its extensive commercial corridors to festival visitors.
For more information about our organization or any of SMDC’s programs, please call Rebecca at (212) 475-3740. Or E-mail: info@thelowereastside.org.
Visit the South Manhattan Development Corporation web site.
