The St. Michaels Community Center (SMCC) is more than a gathering place — it’s a critical hub for social services, workforce development, and community engagement.
Long a cornerstone of St. Michaels and the Bay Hundred area, SMCC provides essential services and fosters a sense of belonging for residents. A major renovation completed in June 2024 transformed the facility at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Fremont Street, and it now offers expanded resources to support businesses, nonprofits, and residents alike.
New Executive Director Amy Horne joined SMCC in January 2025 and is spearheading efforts to connect people with resources while ensuring that the center meets the evolving needs of the community.
“The transformation of this space is remarkable,” Horne says. “This is more than just a building—it’s a place where neighbors help neighbors, where people can gather, learn, and connect with one another.”
The expansion features state-of-the-art amenities, including a commercial catering kitchen, flexible meeting spaces, a technology-equipped classroom, and a welcoming community café and pantry that helps feed neighbors in need. The open, airy design enhances accessibility and functionality, making the SMCC an ideal venue for educational programs, public and private events, community meetings, and performances.
A Community Hub
SMCC’s comprehensive food programs continue to serve as a lifeline for many residents. The center provides hot meals, home meal deliveries, and a well-stocked food pantry, addressing food insecurity in an area often perceived as affluent.
“There’s a misconception that St. Michaels doesn’t have food insecurity,” Horne explains. “Many families who have lived here for generations face economic challenges, especially our seniors and those living with disabilities. The people and programs that support our programs ensure they have access to nutritious meals.”
Currently, the center provides approximately 2,400 meals a month. These are a combination of hot meals served at the center, hot meals delivered throughout the Bay Hundred area, and food pantry bags. Program resources include private donors, some grants, donations from area grocery stores through St. Vincent de Paul of Easton, and food purchased through donations at discounted prices from the Maryland Food Bank.
Workforce Development and Economic Impact
In addition to its food programs, SMCC plans to launch a workforce development initiative aimed at equipping students and adults with employable hospitality industry skills. The program is expected to begin this fall and will provide hands-on training in basic kitchen techniques, preparing individuals to work in local restaurants and catering businesses.
“The hospitality industry is a major economic driver here, but not everyone has the skills needed to get started,” Horne says. “Our goal is to give people practical experience so they can secure stable jobs and contribute to the local economy.”
Horne says SMCC is partnering with area restaurants and chefs to develop the training program and that she will be also reaching out to the Talbot County Public schools to connect with their culinary program.
Space for Connection and Engagement
Beyond workforce training, SMCC already serves as a vibrant gathering place for residents. SMCC hosted a recent Conversation on Race program that drew more than 75 participants, demonstrating the community’s interest in meaningful dialogue and learning opportunities.
Additional programs include driver’s education, dance classes, after-school programs, weekly lunches and activities for senior citizens, and a speaker series that explores local history and connections. The center also operates as a warming and cooling station, ensuring residents have a safe refuge during extreme weather.
SMCC owns and operates Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, a key revenue source supporting its programs and services. Located across the street, the shop accepts gently used donations, providing affordable shopping while promoting sustainability. In addition to funding SMCC, Treasure Cove assists individuals facing crises like fire, eviction, or job loss by offering essential goods at no cost.
SMCC’s role in the community is fortified through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Sponsor support makes a Summer Concert Series at nearby Muskrat Park possible, with the series bringing the community together to connect and enjoy free waterfront concerts.
Collaborative projects include working with the St. Michaels Business Association, the St. Michaels Rotary Club, and other organizations to strengthen economic vitality for the region.
Horne says future initiatives include expanding the center’s community-wide events and catering opportunities, including a box lunch program for groups at local retreats and meetings.
A Call for Community Support
Now that SMCC is in its renovated space, the need for volunteers and community engagement is strong. A volunteer to greet guests in the building is needed, with other opportunities available in the thrift store, food pantry, and community café, as well as through mentoring and teaching roles.
“We rely on the generosity of our community,” Horne stresses. “Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about what we do, every bit of support helps us serve more people.”
With a renewed focus on accessibility, engagement, and economic impact, the St. Michaels Community Center is poised to be a catalyst for positive change. Under Horne’s leadership, the center is not only meeting immediate community needs but also laying the foundation for long-term growth and opportunity.
The St. Michaels Community Center is located at 103 Railroad Avenue and is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Visitors are welcome to tour the facility.
For more information, or to get involved with SMCC and the Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, visit www.stmichaelscc.org or email Amy Horne at amyh@stmichaelscc.org.
About Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism
The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s mission is to enhance and promote a business-friendly environment for current and prospective enterprises and to advocate for policies that support and strengthen the economic vitality of Talbot County. The department’s vision for Talbot County is built on the principles of strong communities, empowered businesses, and innovative solutions.
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