Centerforce has purchased the historic Bone Dry Shoe Building in downtown Tacoma, establishing a permanent headquarters for the nonprofit while keeping one of the city’s most recognizable office properties in active use. The vocational services provider acquired the building for $2.5 million, securing long-term space for its administrative functions and reinforcing its presence in the community it serves.
The organization focuses on vocational training and employment services for adults with disabilities, and the new headquarters is described as a milestone in its growth. By acquiring the Bone Dry Shoe Building rather than leasing space elsewhere, Centerforce is locking in a stable base of operations in Tacoma’s central business district, while also taking on stewardship of a well-known historic office asset.
The seller in the transaction was represented by Lee & Associates, with brokers John Bauder and Harrison Laird leading the assignment. On the buy side, Ryan Kershaw and Drew Frame of Kidder Mathews represented Centerforce, advising the nonprofit through the acquisition process. The dual representation underscores the role of brokerage firms in matching mission-driven buyers with distinctive office properties.
Originally constructed in 1917 for the Bone Dry Shoe Manufacturing Company, the building retains many of its early 20th-century industrial office characteristics. The property still features heavy timber framing, exposed concrete walls and hardwood floors, elements that reflect its manufacturing origins and contribute to its identity as a historic office building in downtown Tacoma.
Centerforce plans to occupy a portion of the building for its corporate headquarters while continuing to lease the remaining office space to other tenants. This approach positions the property as both an owner-occupied headquarters and a multi-tenant office asset. Commenting on the assignment, Bauder noted that representing the owners in the sale was meaningful because of the history associated with both the building and the people who have occupied it over time, highlighting the property’s longstanding role within Tacoma’s built environment.
