Media Fellowship House (MFH) celebrated its 80th anniversary on Sunday, October 13, 2024, with the Jackson Street Jubilee: 80 Years of Justice. This outdoor event, held at 302 S. Jackson Street, Media, PA, commemorated eight decades of service, unity, and social justice in Delaware County, with over 200 guests in attendance.
Founded in 1944 by visionary leaders Marie Whitaker and Dorothy Biddle James, MFH has been a beacon of empowerment and advocacy for 80 years. The Jackson Street Jubilee was filled with live music from Conjunto Philadelphia, and delicious food from local vendors including Delco Steaks, Plum Pit Food Truck, and Pastry Pants Bakery.
One of the highlights was the unveiling of a stunning Community Mural, a collaborative piece of artwork symbolizing MFH’s legacy of unity and justice. Lead mural artist Steph Untz, with artist Emmanuel Fitzpatrick, shared words about the inspiration behind the mural, which was brought to life by community members of all ages. The mural embodies MFH’s core values of empowerment, growth, and unity, serving as a powerful reminder of its ongoing commitment to community engagement.
Honoring a Legacy of Justice: Bill Whitaker Reflects on MFH’s Impact
Among the event’s notable speakers was Bill Whitaker, award-winning journalist and current correspondent for CBS’s 60 Minutes. Whitaker’s career has taken him around the world, reporting on some of the most pressing issues of our time, earning him accolades such as the Peabody Award and multiple Emmy Awards. Yet, for Whitaker, the seeds of his passion for justice were planted right here in Media, PA, where his mother, Marie Whitaker, co-founded Media Fellowship House in 1944.
During the Jackson Street Jubilee, Whitaker reflected on his childhood experiences attending MFH speaker events and dialogues, recalling how these gatherings shaped his worldview and nurtured his deep commitment to social justice. His reflections reminded the audience of the enduring importance of organizations like Media Fellowship House in fostering dialogue and unity.
The event also brought together multiple generations of the Whitaker and James families, with relatives traveling from across the globe, to celebrate this special milestone. Whitaker’s presence at the celebration not only honored his mother’s legacy but also highlighted the ongoing relevance of the values that have guided MFH for 80 years.
Recognizing Our Supporters
MFH extends its gratitude to the lead sponsors who helped make the Jackson Street Jubilee possible, including the Whitaker Family, Keller, Lisgar, and Williams LLP, the Nathan Speare Foundation, and United Savings Bank. Special thanks also go to the Media Arts Council (MAC) for their partnership in planning the event and the mural project. MAC’s mission to integrate the arts into the community aligned beautifully with the spirit of the celebration.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
As MFH reflected on its 80-year legacy, the event also marked an opportunity to look ahead to the future. Amy Komarnicki, Executive Director of Media Fellowship House, shared her vision for the organization’s continued growth: “As we look to the future, Media Fellowship House is dedicated to expanding our reach and deepening our impact. We’re here to provide opportunities and resources that help individuals and families thrive, and we’re excited for the next chapter in our journey of building a stronger, more connected community.”
For 80 years, Media Fellowship House has fostered inclusivity and provided a space for dialogue and action on social justice issues. From its founding days of hosting interracial events to today’s focus on housing counseling, economic empowerment, and digital navigation programs, MFH remains steadfast in honoring the vision of its founders.
Current Programs Driving Change
MFH continues to offer programs that empower individuals and strengthen connections across Delaware County, including:
- Housing Counseling: Assisting first-time homebuyers through pre-purchase, pre-closing, and post-closing counseling, ensuring sustainable homeownership.
- Economic Empowerment: Offering financial coaching to support low- and moderate-income households in building savings, improving financial literacy, and achieving long-term financial goals.
- Digital Navigation: Providing access to technology and digital skills training to help bridge the digital divide, particularly for senior citizens and individuals with limited technology access.
- Youth Scholarships: Recognizing high school juniors and seniors for their leadership skills and amplifying their voice on topics of taking action against injustice.
- Community Service Programs: Fostering engagement through meaningful volunteer opportunities, a vibrant community garden project, and impactful food and resource drives held throughout the year.
Looking Ahead: Deepening Our Connection with the Community
As MFH looks to the future, the organization remains committed to expanding its outreach, deepening connections, and amplifying its work. With new partnerships and an increasing demand for programs, MFH is focused on growing its capacity to serve Delaware County residents.
“Media Fellowship House’s mission has always been to create a space where people feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed,” said Jonathan Flynn, President of the MFH Board of Directors. “As we reflect on the past 80 years, we are committed to moving forward with renewed energy to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
A Day to Remember
The beautiful weather made the Jackson Street Jubilee a memorable day for all in attendance. With music, art, and stories of legacy, the celebration highlighted MFH’s enduring impact and its bright future ahead. Donations from the event will support vital MFH programs, including scholarships, housing counseling, and digital navigation services.
To learn more or to make a donation in honor of Media Fellowship House’s 80th Anniversary, you can visit our Event Page.