Our Story: Then, Now, and What’s Ahead
Our Story: Then, Now, and What’s Ahead
Embedded Files
Honoring our Legacy
Honoring our Legacy
Our history is rooted in community, service, and resilience and it continues to guide us as we reimagine Cole's Center as a hub for opportunity, collaboration, and impact for generations to come.
Building our future
Building our future
At Cole's Foundation, we carry our history forward—using it as a guide as we create spaces, partnerships, and initiatives that meet the evolving needs of our local community.
John Cole III
John Cole III
Cole’s Center traces its roots back to Cole’s Place, founded by lifelong West End resident and community advocate John Cole III—known to many as Mr. Cole, Chuck, or Chuckie. Born in Louisville in 1957 and raised in the Southwick Projects, Mr. Cole learned early the importance of service, faith, and giving back through his family and his church home, Southern Star Church, under the leadership of civil rights pastor Rev. Charles E. Kirby.
A skilled tradesman educated at Central High School, Mr. Cole built a successful career in flooring, becoming one of the most respected craftsmen at Martin Flooring Company before co‑owning DC Flooring Company. His entrepreneurial success fueled a deeper calling: to reinvest in the West End and create opportunities for neighbors across the historic Russell area and what are now known as the Parkland, Park DuValle, and Chickasaw neighborhoods.
With compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, Mr. Cole envisioned Cole’s Place as a welcoming community hub where everyone felt seen, heard, and valued. The space hosted community meetings, political forums, church events, back‑to‑school giveaways, family celebrations, repasses, and large‑scale efforts such as the Louisville Flint, Michigan Water Drive. Mr. Cole also championed youth by supporting tutoring programs, summer camps, and basketball leagues, even donating transportation to remove barriers for students and families.
Though Mr. John Cole III’s life ended while he was still actively leading and serving at Cole’s Place, his legacy lives on. His heart, vision, and dedication continue to shape Cole’s Center today—rooted in community, driven by service, and committed to the West End.
Past Accomplishments, Awards & Recognition
Past Accomplishments, Awards & Recognition
Mr. John Cole III received numerous proclamations and recognition awards honoring his lifelong dedication, generosity, and service to Louisville’s West End community. The acknowledgments below represent just a portion of the impact he made through his leadership, entrepreneurship, and unwavering commitment to others.
April 13, 2013
Louisville Office of the Mayor
Proclamation of “John ‘Chuckie’ Cole Day”
Issued in honor of Mr. Cole’s birthday and his outstanding contributions to the West End community.May 19, 2013
Louisville Office of the Mayor
“Mr. John Cole Day” Proclamation
Recognizing his continued service and positive influence throughout Louisville.2017
District 1 Black History Award
Awarded for Mr. Cole’s commitment of time, talent, and resources to empowering the West End—serving as both a beacon for social change and a visionary entrepreneur providing jobs and training for those in need.September 15, 2022
Give for Good Louisville Magna Cum Laude Award
Presented to Chuck Cole in recognition of uncommon generosity and philanthropic leadership.October 28, 2022
Community Recognition by Mayor Greg Fischer
Honored as a devoted citizen who provided a dedicated community gathering space through Cole’s Place—“the place to see and be seen.” Quiet in action, yet powerful in impact, Mr. Cole loved Louisville deeply and served selflessly.January 15, 2023
Shively City Council Certificate of Merit
Honoring John Cole III as a distinguished community leader and businessman.
Join The Advisory Council
The Cole’s Center Advisory Council is a group of engaged community leaders and partners who help guide the vision, programming, and impact of Cole’s Center. Council members value collaboration, community voice, and supporting the growth of Cole’s Center both publicly and behind the scenes.
Why Join?
Why Join?
Members have the opportunity to:
Members have the opportunity to:
Share feedback and ideas
Help influence future events and layouts
Stay connected to upcoming opportunities
Play a role in improving the vendor experience
Membership Perks
Membership Perks
Early access to select announcements
Early access to all Cole's Center events
Priority consideration for certain events (For Vendors)
Access to our Annual Council Breakfast
Membership is limited and participation is by application and approval.
Membership is limited and participation is by application and approval.
Christmas Gift Drive 2025
2026 Derby Showcase
Annual Council Breakfast
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