The John F. Kennedy Inc. (JFK) was founded as a private, non-profit social service agency in Erie , Pennsylvania USA in 1968.  JFK was founded as a living memorial to the legacy of the President John F. Kennedy.  The JFK Center was formed to offer charitable and educational programs to further the common good and general welfare of people.  The Center uses both paid staff and volunteers to implement the various programs.  JFK is a member agency of the United Way of Erie Country.

In 1969, a commercial building was purchased to house the Human Service Agency.  The structure became the building block from which the JFK Center grew. During the late 1960's, JFK operated youth recreation and community outreach.  In 1972, JFK received a grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to construct a large multi-purpose facility.  At that time the JFK provided several human services programs:  child care, safety patrol, emergency food, medical services, youth recreation, senior citizens, maternity child health, and a primary health care clinic.

With the realty of the multi-purpose neighborhood facility, JFK began providing a uniform system of human services, as opposed to a conglomeration of programs. The Center became a hub of funded programs with informal community gatherings. These included tenant councils, ladies' auxiliary, scout troops, youth council, and Kiwanis Club.

Throughout the 1980's, the John F. Kennedy Center 's primary health care services continued to grow.  Over 4,000 patients were served each year in the agency's outpatient primary care clinic and medical laboratory.  In the mid 80's a stress unit, pharmacy and state-funded maternity services project were added.  In 1994, JFK's Islands of Beauty Program was extended to Micronesia and established the San Antonio Youth Center in Saipan, Northern Marianas Islands .  In 2001, JFK founded the John F. Kennedy Center Foundation - Legacy Program in Manila , Philippines to provide outreach programs for Asia - Pacific region.  In 2002, JFK established the Northwest Pennsylvania Freedom Institute that highlights the history of the Underground Railroad and the JFK Theater.  Since its inception, the JFK Center has served thousands of families and has been committed to empowering people to achieve better lives.


A Message from the Executive Director

Greetings, my name is Bobby Harrison. I serve as the Executive Director of the John F. Kennedy Center (JFK) and as President of JFK Minority Development Corporation. For nearly four decades, JFK has proven to be one of the most valuable service organizations in Northwestern Pennsylvania and has made a positive impact in Micronesia and Philippines Islands. JFK has been an effective community center, maintaining a focus on the human services that will give participants a chance to better their lives.

For those who invested in our center and shared our interest in and affection for our mission, we have spoken endlessly about what we believe to be the ultimate virtue of JFK. Our center was able to overcome significant obstacles with strong productivity. We have had a few misses, yet the investments that have gone into the JFK for the people, whom we represent, as we work together in changing times, can and will remain a strong force for the common good.