Reeses House, Behind the Storytelling Workshop Space
In Millville, New Jersey, on Sassafrass Street, stands Reese’s House, a community space created with a mission of honoring legacy, fostering collaboration, and building stronger connections. Established in June 2022 by Our Future First, Reese’s House was founded as a safe haven for youth and community members to gather, share ideas, and build lasting relationships.
The idea for Our Future First arose after the senseless murder of one of Sean’s former students, Maurice “Reese” Lewis. Speaking with Reese’s family, friends, and community members revealed some significant issues in our hometown that needed addressing. Through these real talks, honest reflection, soul-searching, and collaboration, our organization was born. Their philosophy is grounded in putting our future, our youth, first in every decision that we make. If we can do something that allows us to make a positive impact on our future, we are willing to tackle that challenge. We are only limited by the imagination of our members and the communities that we serve. Together, we can and will do great things to help and change our world!
Named in memory of Reese, the space fulfills a promise made after his passing—to do more for the community and provide a place where creativity, conversation, and collaboration flourish.
A Unique Collaboration with Wildflower Vegan Café
At the heart of Reese’s House is its partnership with the Wildflower Vegan Café, a popular local eatery known for its delicious plant-based meals. Using the commercial kitchen at Reese’s House, Wildflower Vegan Café provides food not only for café guests but also for the events hosted in the space. This collaboration reflects both partners’ dedication to community, wellness, and sustainability.
Reese’s House is more than just a community café. With its versatile setup, the space can host a wide range of events, from meetings and workshops to larger celebrations and gatherings. Whether you’re coming for a great meal, an engaging event, or simply to connect with others, Reese’s House has quickly become a cornerstone for building memories and community engagement.
Upcoming Storytelling Workshop with Michelle Washington Wilson
This fall, Reese’s House will host an exclusive event that exemplifies its commitment to culture and connection: a storytelling workshop featuring award-winning Michelle Washington Wilson. Wilson, an acclaimed storyteller and teaching artist, is known for her ability to weave historical narratives with rich folk traditions, particularly those connected to Southern New Jersey and the African American experience.
Wilson’s storytelling brings to life the historical journeys of figures like Harriet Tubman, preserving regional history while making it accessible and engaging for modern audiences. A recipient of numerous awards, including grants from the South Jersey Cultural Alliance and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Wilson’s work ensures that these important cultural legacies continue to inspire and educate.
Her upcoming workshop at Reese’s House will provide participants with an opportunity to not only learn the craft of storytelling but also understand how narratives can preserve cultural heritage. The event’s intimate setting on Sassafrass Street will offer the perfect backdrop for this exploration of history and community.
Seats are limited. You can register for the session here.
Grateful for a Space Rooted in Legacy
We are incredibly thankful to Our Future First and Wildflower Vegan Café for opening the doors of Reese’s House for this exclusive event. Reese’s House, with its rich history and mission, offers the perfect space for community-building, collaboration, and cultural exchange. It stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when a community unites around shared values and a desire to create a better future.
As we look forward to this special storytelling workshop with Michelle Washington Wilson, we do so in a space that not only honors Reese’s legacy but also continues to serve the Millville community as a gathering place for connection and growth.
