The Historic Sanford Welcome Center, born from the dedication of volunteers, began operations in May 2006. Housed in the former Post Office, it was transformed into a vibrant Welcome Center through a unique public-private partnership between the City and the Center. The City provided the building, utilities, and initial funding, while the Welcome Center, incorporating as a non-profit, took on the role of downtown Sanford’s ambassador. This partnership allowed the Center to take over the operation of the popular “Alive After 5” event, which the City had initiated following the redevelopment of First Street.

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Over the years, the Welcome Center became more than just a tourism bureau; it evolved into a cultural hub, greeting over 20,000 guests annually, managing a gift shop, and spearheading the monthly Artwalk, which featured judged art exhibits and programs supporting young musical talents. In 2019, when the agreement with the City expired, the building was repurposed into a Business Center, and the organization was rebranded as Project Sanford. Despite the name change, Project Sanford continues to host Alive After 5 and the weekly Farmers Market, carrying forward its legacy of community enrichment and support.