Legacy
Our Founding
As we enter our second century of existence, DCS treasures its heritage of offering responsive services that are close to home and easily accessible, serving as an "extended living room" and providing leadership to bring resources into the community.
DCS was officially incorporated in 1968 through the merger of Western Soup Society, whose origins date back to 1837, and the University of Pennsylvania settlement houses and camps that existed in South Philadelphia/Point Breeze in the early 1900s. DCS established two new daycare centers in the community in the 1970s while maintaining Dixon House--the only settlement house or neighborhood center that remains in the area. DCS completed the construction of the Mamie Nichols Center, a social service and administrative center in the heart of Point Breeze, in 2007.
Our Buildings
Dixon House
1920 South 20th Street, Phildelphia, PA 19145; 215-336-3511
Established in 1918, Dixon House is a "market place" for social interaction and services as well as a spring board for social change. It is touchstone for the neighborhood--providing essential services to support vulnerable individuals and families as well as specialized programs to promote family stability. Most importantly, Dixon House is always open and accessible to the community for all manner of events and activities--self help groups, educational forums, informal basketball leagues, job fairs and meeting space for other community organizations.
Contact us directly to get information on our assistance programs or to sign up for services.
Mamie Nichols Center
1529 South 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146; 215-336-1111
After a journey that was four years in the making, DCS officially opened its new social service/administrative center in the heart of Point Breeze in 2007. A year later the Board of Directors named the facility in honor of Mamie Nichols, a champion of Point Breeze and neighborhood greening. Mamie started her professional social work career at Dixon House.
Mamie Nichols Center (The Before Shot)
Our People
