Our Vision

Cultivating Northeast Ohio’s Future, Sustainably

For too long, communities across Northeast Ohio—cities like Akron, Canton, Massillon, and beyond—have grappled with the echoes of industrial decline, leaving residents yearning for pathways to prosperity and sustainable growth. We believe the future of urban revitalization lies not just in rebuilding, but in reimagining—creating self-sustaining ecosystems that empower individuals and ignite a new era of innovation. This audacious vision is the driving force behind the Milton Lumbergh Association (MLA).

A Dream Taking Root: More Than a Building, A Living Blueprint

A personal dream, twenty years in the making, has evolved into a concrete plan for a revolutionary hub rooted in Northeast Ohio, beginning in Akron. We are seeking to transform a once-forgotten structure—be it a venerable church, a robust warehouse, or a classic elementary school—into a vibrant, multi-faceted complex. This structure will be a living laboratory, a beacon of sustainable technology, and a thriving community nexus, designed to inspire wonder and foster genuine opportunity.

The Heart of Our Mission

Within this extraordinary environment, MLA’s core mission thrives: to provide a free, hands-on technology training program designed specifically for individuals from low-income backgrounds with a passion for innovation. Participants will immerse themselves in a multilingual, simulated office environment, gaining invaluable practical skills by learning about and supporting every piece of technology within the building—from its sustainable systems to its high-tech entertainment infrastructure. Our ultimate goal is direct job placement, equipping individuals with the skills not just for employment, but for thriving careers that contribute directly to the resurgence of Northeast Ohio’s economy.

The Technological Ecosystem: Where Innovation Meets Nature

At the heart of the facility will be the Self-Sustaining Core, a grand structure that integrates cutting-edge design with environmental stewardship. This hub will feature a colossal volumetric projection screen, biophilic integration that merges nature with technology, and intelligent systems that use environmental data to optimize energy efficiency. Specialized technologies for water purification and ecosystem replenishment will ensure the space is not only innovative but restorative.

Join Us in Building the Future

MLA is more than an organization—it is a movement toward sustainable innovation and economic revitalization. We invite scientists, technologists, corporate leaders, and community champions to join us in transforming ideas into vibrant reality. Together, we can cultivate spaces that inspire, empower, and sustain the future of Northeast Ohio.