Citizens Alliance for Progress

Our History

Citizens Alliance for Progress, Inc., (CAP), is a non-profit, community based, multiracial, civic organization. CAP was founded in 1982, by a group of concerned African-American citizens living in the heart of Tarpon Springs, Florida. CAP was organized for the sole purpose of acquiring and restoring the previously abandoned Union Academy Elementary School, where many of the residents within the community started their formal education. Union Academy was not only a center for education, but was also the focal point of activity, social events and community pride.

In 1986, CAP, along with help from Community Development of Pinellas County and support from the City of Tarpon Springs, was able to restore the once abandoned Union Academy School. Renovations to the school were completed in 1987, and, it was reopened as the Union Academy Cultural Center. The center is now known as the Union Academy Family Center. In addition, CAP was able to hire staff and develop programs, services, and events for the community by successfully applying for and receiving grants from the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County and local foundations.