Association to Preserve African American Society,
History and Tradition, Inc.
Summary
Contact Information
Nonprofit
Association to Preserve African American Society,
History and Tradition, Inc.
Address
511 W South St Ste 100
Orlando, FL 32805
Phone
(407) 245-7535
Fax
(407) 246-0272
Web Site
http://wellsbuiltmuseumofafricanamericanhistoryandcult
ure.org/
At a Glance
IRS Ruling Year
1993
Organization's type of tax exempt status
Public Supported Charity
1
Statements
Statements
Mission
The mission of the Association is to “collect, preserve and exhibit historical artifacts and information which
illustrate the meaningful role African Americans have played in the Orlando area and the State of Florida. The
Association is dedicated to collecting and exhibiting memorabilia which commemorate the achievements of
African Americans educators, athletes, musicians, religious, civic, and cultural leaders. The Association seeks to
educate visitors to and members of the Central Florida community at large regarding the African American
experience including relevant history, literature, art, language, and culture.
Impact
Major Achievements include the premier of the stage play A Vote: A Voice which opened two sold out
audiences at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts to commemorate Black History Month. PAST Inc.
promoted the formation of the state wide Sankofa Project which highlights Black Cultural Tourism. The
Association participated in the City of Orlando Historical Plaques program and provided data for the plaque to
be installed on the residence of Dr. William Monroe Wells.
Needs
The Association needs to equip the Well's Built Museum with the technology needed to develop interactive
exhibits. Increased membership is needed as well as greater admissions. Staff is needed to coordinate
expanded community events which could be supported by additional volunteers.
Background
The Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition, Inc. (PAST, Inc.) was founded in
1990 and incorporated in 1992 to collect, preserve and exhibit historical artifacts and information which illustrate
the meaningful role African Americans have played in building the Orlando area and the state of Florida. PAST,
Inc. is dedicated to collecting and exhibiting memorabilia which commemorate the achievements of African
American educators, athletes, musicians, religious, civic, cultural and social leaders.
In 1994, PAST, Inc. partnered with the Trust for Public Land, a national organization that works to preserve land
and historic properties for public use, to acquire the Wells’Built Hotel. The Wells’Built was purchased in 1996. A
celebration was held on the grounds of the Wells’Built in recognition of the purchase. Grant funds were received
in 1997 from the Florida Department of State to begin restoration of theWells’Built.
Additional grant funds were received in 1998 from the Florida Department of Community Affairs to complete the
restoration. R. L. Burns, Inc. was selected as the General Contractor to restore the Wells’Built.
CEO/Executive Director Statement
The Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition, Inc. (PAST, Inc.) is an
organization that is committed to maintaining the strong tradition set by the pioneers of the African American
community in Central Florida. PAST seeks to establish long-standing programming and offer quality programs
to local residents and visitors to the area.
Board Chair Statement
The Association is proud to continue the legacy of Dr. William Monroe Wells, one of Orlando’s first Black
physicians, came to the area in 1917. He built his home on South Street in 1924 and he began construction of
the Wells’Built Hotel in 1926. The Hotel opened in 1929 with three storefronts on the first floor and hotel rooms
on the second floor. Dr. Wells erected the Wells’Built Hotel to provide lodging to African Americans during an
era of segregation when accommodations were not available to them in other areas of Central Florida. The
Wells’Built is located at 511 West South Street. It is next door to what was once the site of the South Street
Casino—a performance hall—which featured such greats as Count Basie, Lucky Millinder, Cab Calloway, Lionel
Hampton, B.B. King, Bo Didley, Guitar Slim, Dinah Washington, Arthur Prysock and Ray Charles. The South
Street Casino burned and was demolished in 1987. Many of the performers who traveled the “Chitlin Circuit” to
perform at the South Street Casino lived at the Wells’Built Hotel.
Areas of Service
2
Geographic Areas Served
Areas
FL - Orange
The organization serves and is located in the historic Holden/Parramore District just outside of downtown
Orlando.
Service Categories
Primary Organization Type
Arts,Culture & Humanities
Secondary Organization Type
Education
Tertiary Organization Type
Youth Development
3
Impact
Goals
The goals for the upcoming year include a repeat performance of A Vote: A Voice, branding the Sankofa Project
throughout Florida, and completing restoration of the Well's Heritage House. The Association will conduct
walking tours of the Parramore community during its Juneteenth Festival and install interactive displays at the
Well's Built which will engage audiences through history and music. Thee offerings will enable the organization
to expand instructional programs for educational institutions.
Strategies
Bring better awareness of the organization by developing programs that will expand outreach into the
community. Facilitate events at the establishment that invite individuals and families to actively participate.
Utilize every resource of social media to advertise the establishment and events therein. We are opening our
doors to host community groups for business meetings and or other events. Our staff participates in off-site
events with mobile displays to build report and visitation.
Capabilities
Information about the organization can be found on our Web-site
www.wellsbuiltmuseumofafricanamericanhistoryandculture.org, also through social media on the Facebook
page and other social media tools that is linked to the website.
Indicators
A monthly journal kept which records the calendar of events each day of each month, both on site and off site
events. Qualitatively we solicit feed back from patrons that assist in improving service to visitors and members
of the community. Quantitatively, the number of visitors is documented daily, the totals of each month are
totaled at the end of the year. Obtaining posession of the family home of the original owner and founder of the
Historical Landmark governed by this organization was definately a milestone, as upon it's total restorationit will
be included in the tour adding greater value overall. Target dates for restoration of this project are scheduled
for completion in 2016 increasing visitation and patronage. Exposure through newscasts about the organization
has increased both awareness and visitation. In analyzing both quantitative and qualitative measures, we are
able to target high and low peak dates and determine strategies to bring better awareness of the facility and it's
history.
Progress
Major achievements include the premier of the stage play A Vote: A Voice which open to two sold out audiences
at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts to commemorate Black History Month. PAST Inc. promoted the
formation of the state wide Sankofa Project which highlights Black Cultural Tourism. The
Association participated in the city of Orlando Historical Plaques Program and provided data tor the plaque to be
installed on the residence of Dr. William Monroe Wells.
4
Programs
Programs
ECHO
Description
The Exploring Culture and Humanities Opportunities Program is funded by
the City of Orlando's Mayor's Matching Grant. During this program the
Bridge to Independence School will collaborate with PAST to provide a
heritage instruction program for Parramore youth to educate them
regarding individuals from their community who were instrumental in the
development of Central Florida. The program has served up to 100 youth
during the summer and after-school hours during the academic year.
Class Code
Education, General/Other
Class Sub Code
Afterschool Enrichment
Population Served
Children Only (5 - 14 years)
Budget
$6,500.00
Long Term Success
The program will increase the verbal communication, writing and
computer skills of the participants. The knowledge acquired will result in
greater pride as demonstrated by improved maintenance of the
community.
Short Term Success
Pre-tests and post-tests will reveal an increase in knowledge by the
participants. Digital oral histories and history booklets about community
pioneers will be completed by 100% the students.
Program Success Monitored By
Student folders are being maintained to view and evaluate the
assignments for effectiveness.
Examples of Program Success
Several measurements, including an increase in student attendance and
test data, will demonstrate a successful implementation of the program.
Wells'Built Museum
Description
PAST operates the Wells'Built Museum of African American History and
Culture. This venture allows the Association to fulfill its mission to collect,
preserve and exhibit historical artifacts and information by providing the
museum for public access and producing quality exhibits.
Class Code
Arts, Culture & Humanities, General/Other
Class Sub Code
Museums
Population Served
General/Unspecified
Budget
$0.00
Long Term Success
Short Term Success
Program Success Monitored By
Examples of Program Success
5
CEO Comments
PAST is attempting to expand programming in terms of exhibits and educational opportunities. This involves
strengthening our volunteer base and implementation of sound financial planning to increase revenue.
6
Governance
Board Chair
Board Chair
Mr. John Stover
Company Affiliation
Retired
Term
Jan 2014 to Jan 2016
Board Members
Name
Affiliation
Status
Attorney Ralph Armstead
Attorney At Law
Voting
Mr. Tim Brown
Community Volunteer
Voting
Mr. James Thomas DeShay
Orange County Public School
Voting
Ms. Dee Emmanuel
Community Volunteer
Voting
Mr Donald Everett
Retired
Voting
Mrs Alyce Francis
Retired
Voting
Mr. John Stover
Voting
Attorney Virginia Townes
Attorney At Law
Voting
Mrs. Jackie Willis
Community Volunteer
Voting
Mr. John W. Wilson
Retired
Voting
Board Demographics - Ethnicity
African American/Black
9
Asian American/Pacific Islander
0
Caucasian
1
Hispanic/Latino
0
Native American/American Indian
0
Other
00
Board Demographics - Gender
Male
6
Female
4
Not Specified
0
Governance
Board Term Lengths
0
Board Term Limits
0
Board Meeting Attendance
80%
Number of Full Board Meetings Annually
2
Written Board Selection Criteria?
Yes
7
Written Conflict of Interest Policy?
No
Percentage Making Monetary Contributions
3%
Percentage Making In-Kind Contributions
90%
Standing Committees
Board Development / Board Orientation
Executive
Institutional Advancement
Comments
The Association has updated our Articles of Incorporation, By Laws, and Board Governance documentation.
We seek to strengthen and expand our Board of Directors.
8
Management
CEO/Executive Director
Executive Director
Mr. James DeShay
Term Start
Jan 2016
Email
pastinc1@gmail.com
Experience
James DeShay has taken on the role of Director as of January 2016. He was previously an educator with
Orange County Public Schools for over 30 years. He has been an active part of P.A.S.T. for over fifteen years
and has served as a Board Member.
Former CEOs
Name
Term
Derrick Gatlin
0 - Dec 2016
Mr. Cobbin McGhee
0- 0
Senior Staff
Mr. James T. DeShay
Title
Programs Coordinator
Experience/Biography
Staff
Full Time Staff
1
Part Time Staff
2
Volunteers
5
Contractors
0
Retention Rate
95%
State Information
State Charitable Solicitations Permit?
Yes Nov 2016
State Registration
Yes Apr 2017
9
Plans & Policies
Plans and Policies
Organization has a Fundraising Plan?
No
Organization has a Strategic Plan?
No
Management Succession Plan?
No
Organization Policy and Procedures
No
Nondiscrimination Policy
No
Directors and Officers Insurance Policy
No
Management Information
Whistleblower Policy
No
Document Destruction Policy
No
Management Reports To Board
Yes
CEO/Executive Director Formal Evaluation
Yes
CEO/Executive Director Formal Frequency
Annually
Senior Management Formal Evaluation
No
Senior Management Formal Evaluation Frequency
N/A
Collaborations
The Exploring Culture and Humanities Opportunities Program is funded by the City of Orlando's Mayor's
Matching Grant. During this program the Bridge to Independence School will collaborate with PAST to provide a
heritage instruction program for Parramore youth to educate them regarding individuals from their community
who were instrumental in the development of Central Florida. The program has served up to 100 youth during
the summer and after-school hours during the academic year.
Awards
Award/Recognition
Organization
Year
Disney's Helping Kids Shine
Walt Disney World Company
2007
10
Financials
Fiscal year
Fiscal Year Start
Oct 01, 2015
Fiscal Year End
Sept 30, 2016
Projected Revenue
$120,000.00
Projected Expenses
$115,000.00
Endowment Value
$0.00
Spending Policy
N/A
Percentage
0%
Detailed Financials
Revenue and Expenses
Fiscal Year
Total Revenue
Total Expenses
Revenue Sources
Fiscal Year
Foundation and Corporation
Contributions
Government Contributions
Federal
State
Local
Unspecified
Individual Contributions
Indirect Public Support
Earned Revenue
Investment Income, Net of Losses
Membership Dues
Special Events
Revenue In-Kind
Other
2014
$71,305
$70,406
2013
$95,264
$94,808
2012
$84,562
$84,183
2014
$13,500
2013
$0
2012
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$10,950
$0
$34,680
$5
$0
$0
$0
$12,170
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$80,590
$0
$14,674
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$70,856
$0
$13,706
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
11
Expense Allocation
Fiscal Year
Program Expense
Administration Expense
Fundraising Expense
Payments to Affiliates
Total Revenue/Total Expenses
Program Expense/Total Expenses
Fundraising Expense/Contributed
Revenue
Assets and Liabilities
Fiscal Year
Total Assets
Current Assets
Long-Term Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Total Net Assets
Short Term Solvency
Fiscal Year
Current Ratio: Current Assets/Current
Liabilities
Long Term Solvency
Fiscal Year
Long-Term Liabilities/Total Assets
Top Funding Sources
Fiscal Year
Top Funding Source & Dollar Amount
2014
$17,586
$52,820
$0
$0
1.01
25%
0%
2013
$22,759
$72,049
$0
$0
1.00
24%
0%
2012
$23,241
$60,942
$0
$0
1.00
28%
0%
2014
$518,484
$34,608
$0
$0
$518,484
2013
$510,417
$32,635
$0
$0
$510,417
2012
$509,961
$33,109
$0
$0
$509,961
2014
--
2013
--
2012
--
2014
0%
2013
0%
2012
0%
2014
Earned Revenue
$34,680
2013
Individuals,
Foundations,
Corporations,
Government $80,590
Earned Revenue
$14,674
2012
Individuals,
Foundations,
Corporations,
Government $70,856
Earned Revenue
$13,706
--
--
Second Highest Funding Source & Dollar Foundations and
Amount
Corporations
$13,500
Third Highest Funding Source & Dollar
Other $12,170
Amount
Capital Campaign
Currently in a Capital Campaign?
Yes
Campaign Purpose
We are in the process of soliciting funds from the City
and the State to facilitate restoration of Dr Wells's home
to be included as a part of the tour experience at the
Wells' Built Museum.
Goal
300000
Dates
Jan 2015 to Jan 2020
Amount Raised To Date
$250,000.00 as of July 2016
Capital Campaign Anticipated in Next 5 Years?
Yes
Comments
Organization Comments
2014PAST is a small organization. We have had minor financial issues that stem from growth and the
12
acquisition of the Wells'Built Museum facility. We have had financial reviews in the past and are preparing to
have our finances officially audited in the future.
Foundation Comments
Financial figures taken from 990s.
13
Disaster Plans
Disaster Plans
Organization is a member of Voluntary
Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)?
Created 06.14.2017.
No
Copyright © 2017 Central Florida Foundation
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