Set back on E. 185th St. in the Collinwood neighborhood, Marlene Gatewood-Allen’s family’s building looks fairly nondescript from the street. Inside, though, the former F.O.E fraternal hall is a hive of activity. There’s hospitality, with Marlene providing a rentable full-service, catering, and a social venue for up to 50 guests. There’s karaoke, social hours, and shows open to the neighborhood. There are pop-up flea markets and community festivals in the front parking lot.
“It’s how we live as African Americans, sharing our home and life; that’s why it’s Gatewood Home/Share,” explains Marlene, wiping her hands after straightening up at Gatewood Home/Share, which the family describes as “community-focused support and event…
