About
Building Opportunity. Strengthening Community. Continuing a Legacy of Service.
Called to Serve CDC is a community-centered nonprofit committed to expanding access to education, opportunity, resources, and neighborhood transformation in Philadelphia.
The origins of Called to Serve (CTS) are deeply rooted in the story of Michael A. Major, Sr., a Technology Business Analyst at a leading Wall Street firm and Senior Pastor at the historic Zion Baptist Church in North Philadelphia. Born to parents who had a passion for education, even though neither completed high school, Michael greatly benefited from the ministry and programs of the late civil rights leader, the Rev. Dr. Leon Sullivan, and Zion.
Our Mission
Called to Serve CDC exists to strengthen communities by connecting people to resources, education, partnerships, and programs that create lasting impact.
Rooted in service, faith, and community leadership, our work is focused on meeting real needs, building trusted partnerships, and creating spaces where individuals and families can thrive.
From youth development and education partnerships to neighborhood revitalization and community engagement, Called to Serve CDC is working to help build a stronger, more connected future.
Continuing the Legacy of Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan
Called to Serve CDC is inspired by the legacy of Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan — a visionary leader, pastor, civil rights advocate, and economic empowerment pioneer whose work transformed lives in Philadelphia and around the world.
His commitment to opportunity, self-help, education, and community investment continues to guide our mission today.
Through our programs, partnerships, and the development of the Sullivan Community Impact Center, we are carrying forward a legacy rooted in dignity, service, and collective progress.
Sullivan Community Impact Center
Opening in Fall 2026, the Sullivan Community Impact Center will serve as a new anchor for community-led renewal in Nicetown-Tioga. Designed as more than a building, the center will create space for education, wellness, technology access, arts programming, and neighborhood transformation.
As Called to Serve CDC prepares for this milestone opening, the Impact Center represents the beginning of a powerful comeback for the community.
Our Work
Called to Serve CDC focuses on practical, people-centered solutions that respond to the needs of the community.
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Education & Youth Development
Supporting learning opportunities, mentorship, and partnerships that help young people prepare for the future.
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Community Partnerships
Working with schools, nonprofits, civic leaders, businesses, and residents to strengthen collective impact.
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Economic & Neighborhood Empowerment
Helping create pathways to resources, stability, and opportunity for individuals and families.
Our Impact Is Real
From literacy support to corridor cleaning and community-centered resources, Called to Serve CDC is creating measurable change in Nicetown-Tioga.
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42%
Increase in K-12 Test Scores
In K–2 student test scores through literacy support at a partner elementary school.
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300+
Bags of Trash Collected Monthly
Through the Cleaning Ambassadors Program in a key commercial corridor.
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4,600
Local Residents Est. to Use the Center
Expected to use the Sullivan Community Impact Center for healthcare, technology, arts, and community resources.
Find Your Way to Serve
Whether you give, volunteer, partner, or stay connected, your support helps renew and revitalize Nicetown-Tioga.
Get Involved
Building Opportunity in the Heart of the Community
Through entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, arts, human services, and sustainable community development, Called To Serve is creating a place where residents can learn, connect, access support, and build a stronger future.
Be part of the work that helps bring this vision to life.