Our History
North Hill is one of Akron’s most diverse & dynamic neighborhoods, shaped by generations of immigrants, artists, workers, elders & families.
In the heart of North Hill, Trinity United Church of Christ had long been a place of worship & deep-rooted connection. Guided by faith and its abiding love for the community, the congregation recognized that their beloved building had more to give.
Leaving a Legacy
Since 2012, Trinity UCC had been home base for First Serve, an organization led by First Congregational Church of Hudson. Over the years, hundreds of First Serve volunteers have worked on dozens of projects located at partner organizations and residences in the North Hill Community of Akron.
It just made sense.
In an act of profound generosity, vision & grace, Trinity UCC chose to gift their building to 915 North Main, entrusting the next chapter of its life to the broader neighborhood.
Rooted in Service
First Serve began as a collaborative, service-oriented ministry led by First Congregational Church of Hudson, designed to mobilize hundreds of volunteers in a single day of hands-on community engagement. It brought together churches, civic groups, schools, and families to serve neighborhoods in tangible ways—painting, gardening, repairing, cleaning, mentoring, and more.
Over time, First Serve grew into a trusted partner with the Akron Public Schools, the City of Akron’s Patterson Park Community Center, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority and several nonprofits all working with the residents living in the North Hill neighborhood of Akron.
After fourteen years of relationship building, First Serve moved into 915 North Main, becoming a permanent presence in this community and planting the seed for what’s to come next.