Demo day marks a new beginning for historic 121 Rose Street in West Jackson
JANS – The Center for Social Entrepreneurship (CSE) hosted a Demo Day Celebration on October 22, 2025, at 121 Rose Street, Jackson, MS 39203, marking the removal of a long-blighted structure and the start of a bold redevelopment project — the future William and Lillian Cooley Youth Entrepreneurship and Tech Center.
For decades, the once-proud building at 121 Rose Street stood as a landmark of neighborhood pride in West Jackson. But after years of abandonment, erosion, and multiple fires, the structure became unsafe and unsalvageable. Rather than allow the site to remain a source of blight, CSE acquired the property and is leading a transformative redevelopment that will restore life, opportunity, and purpose to the area.
“The demolition is not an end, but a beginning,” said Dr. Kimberly Hilliard, President and CEO of CSE. “This project is a pragmatic response to longstanding blight and disinvestment. The new Youth Entrepreneurship and Tech Center will be a place where young people can gain workforce skills, explore technology, and discover pathways to entrepreneurship – right here in their own community.”
The Demo Day program included remarks from local officials, community partners, and neighborhood leaders. Toni Cooley, the daughter of Dr. William and the late Mrs. Lillian Cooley, spoke on behalf of her parents’ lifelong dedication to education, equity, and the revitalization of West Jackson. The program concluded with a live countdown marking the start of the demolition..
About the Center for Social Entrepreneurship (CSE)
The Center for Social Entrepreneurship (CSE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to rebuilding an under-resourced neighborhood through reimagining housing, education, economic development, and community engagement. Founded in West Jackson, CSE equips individuals and families with the tools to achieve economic mobility and create generational change.
About the William and Lillian Cooley (WLC) Center
Located at 121 Rose Street, the proposed WLC Center will transform the former Viola Lake House into a 3,000+ square foot hub for youth education and entrepreneurship.
The center will include:
• Inspiring, innovative-driven spaces that cultivate creativity and leadership.
• Year-round educational programs such as after-school enrichment, summer camps, and workforce development training.
• Support for underemployed youth to start businesses or enhance their technical and soft skills.
• A sustainably built, solar-powered facility equipped with state-of-the-art technology to prepare the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs in Jackson.
For more information, visit www.cse-ms.org or follow CSE on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/CSEJackson/
