American Vegan Center
| Formation | 2021 |
|---|---|
| Founder | American Vegan Society |
| Type | Nonprofit |
| Legal status | Active |
| Purpose | Vegan education and outreach |
| Headquarters | 17 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
Region served | United States |
Key people | Vance Lehmkuhl |
Parent organization | American Vegan Society |
| Website | americanvegan.org/avc |
The American Vegan Center is a nonprofit educational space operated by the American Vegan Society (AVS), located in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Opened in September 2021, it is the first public facility operated by AVS since its founding in 1960. The center promotes veganism through public outreach, historical interpretation, and community-based events.
History
The center officially opened on September 9, 2021, at 17 North 2nd Street. Its location was chosen for its proximity to sites important to the history of vegetarianism and veganism in the United States. The American Vegan Center was established to further the mission of the American Vegan Society by offering a dedicated space for educational programming, events, and outreach activities centered on plant-based living.
Although the center operates under AVS, it is not a separate organization. Its founding highlights AVS’s commitment to showcasing Philadelphia’s historical role in the development of the American vegetarian movement. The center’s director, Vance Lehmkuhl, is a prominent advocate for veganism through media and public engagement.[1][2][3]
Programs and Activities
The American Vegan Center offers a range of programs focused on vegan education, historical interpretation, and community engagement. Its initiatives aim to inform the public about vegan principles, support those transitioning to plant-based living, and highlight Philadelphia’s historical role in the vegetarian movement.
- Educational Resources: The center provides literature, books, and informational materials related to veganism, nutrition, and plant-based living.[4]
- Walking Tours: Led by Director Vance Lehmkuhl, the center offers 75-minute guided walking tours exploring Philadelphia’s connections to vegetarian and vegan history. Featured figures include Benjamin Lay, Benjamin Franklin, Caroline Earle White, and Anthony Benezet.[5]
- Public Events and Workshops: The center hosts presentations and workshops featuring authors, chefs, health professionals, and scholars. Topics address various aspects of veganism, including health, ethics, sustainability, and history.[6]
- Community Engagement: The AVC organizes local events such as the Philly Vegan Awards and the Philly Vegan Cheesesteak Contest to recognize and celebrate vegan contributions in the region.[7]
- Local Partnerships: The center collaborates with Philadelphia-based businesses and organizations to promote vegan-friendly products, services, and initiatives throughout the community.
Leadership
Vance Lehmkuhl serves as the Director of the American Vegan Center. A longtime journalist, cartoonist, and advocate for veganism, Lehmkuhl is known for his work with the Philadelphia Daily News and The Philadelphia Inquirer, where he wrote the "V for Veg" column. He is also the Communications Director for the American Vegan Society.
See also
- American Vegan Society
- List of vegetarian and vegan organizations
- Vegetarianism in the United States
References
- ^ Crimmins, P. (2021). "New center will highlight Philadelphia’s vegan roots." WHYY.
- ^ "The History of Vegetarianism in the U.S." ArcGIS StoryMaps. Retrieved May 6, 2025.
- ^ "The US Is Getting a National Vegan Welcome Center". VegNews. Retrieved May 6, 2025.
- ^ "American Vegan Center". American Vegan Society. Retrieved 2025-05-06.
- ^ Crimmins, Peter (2021-07-18). "New center will highlight Philadelphia's vegan roots". WHYY. Retrieved 2025-05-06.
- ^ "The AVC". American Vegan Society. Retrieved 2025-05-06.
- ^ "Philly Vegan Cheesesteak Contest". American Vegan Society. Retrieved 2025-05-06.