The Village Exchange Center began as a concept in early 2016 when the faith community of St. Matthew Lutheran Church considered ways to be responsive to and serve its neighborhood, Aurora, and the wider community. The city of Aurora is among an increasing number of cities across the U.S. grappling with realities of integration with multiple cultures and communities of immigrants and refugees. Following the generous donation of the building and grounds located at 1609 Havana Street in May 2017, the Village Exchange Center was launched to leave a legacy for the Faith Community of St Matthew and to build a bridge with and between the surrounding communities. Village Exchange Center is a community center that collaborates with critical programs for refugee, immigrant and local communities. We also offer space to the community to celebrate religious and cultural diversity.