Can nonprofits drive profits?
West Main and Colony streets have had their share of closings and openings in recent years, but instead of businesses, some of the the latest newcomers are nonprofit organizations with programs for families. Meriden officials are boosting family activities downtown to generate foot traffic, and they have some eager partners. The Meriden YMCA is responsible for much of the growth downtown. Since acquiring the building at 14 W. Main St., the YMCA has overhauled its art program on the second floor and worked out a partnership with art collector and framer Steven Robichaud to relocate the Sandman Gallery & Frame Shoppe to the lower level.
