The nonprofit Kelly Center in Havertown, known as the 33^rd Irish county, has become an inspiring and diverse community music space thanks to the efforts of two Irish American brothers, writes Fionnuala Boyle for the Irish Star.

The Center features music, comedy, poetry, and jam sessions. It’s also used for music lessons and for children’s programs.

Tom and Paul Kelly restored an old retail store in 2019 to create a music hall open to people of all ages and abilities.

“It used to be Goodman’s Convenience Store but it had changed hands a number of times and when we got it, it was a mess,” Tom said.

They describe the Kelly Center as a listening room.

“We respect the music and so do the people who come here. They expect to come in and listen, not to come in and talk on their phones or watch sports,” Tom said.

Tom, 65, a Villanova University graduate, was a radio disc jockey for 30 years before starting a music consultant firm.

Paul, 53, is a DJ at 102.9 WMGK.

The two men are also behind the annual Havertown Irish Festival.

Read more about all the Kelly Center has to offer in the Irish Star.

Here’s a fundraising video describing the Kelly Center from four years ago.