×

Youth Center plans parking area

Sentinel photo by ALYSSA BURD Pictured is the residence the Paul W. DeLauter Youth Center plans to demolish in order to make space for a new parking area.

MIFFLINTOWN — With some help from community partners, the Paul W. DeLauter Youth Center in Mifflintown hopes to create a new parking area later this year.

Located near the square in Mifflintown, the youth center currently lacks a safe space for parents to park their vehicles before dropping off their children. However, the DeLauter officers recently purchased the house and property adjacent to the youth center, with plans to demolish the existing structure and build a safe and accessible parking lot.

According to James McLaughlin, president of the youth center, the project is being funded by a capital campaign that is supported by donors within the community. With a goal of $65,000, McLaughlin said the campaign funds will help pay for the purchase, demolition and completion of the new lot. Any money that remains after the project’s completion will be directed toward programming improvements and facility updates.

“Prospective donors are from organizations, nonprofits and businesses in the greater Mifflintown area,” said the Rev. Mike Sigler, campaign chairman. “The board is making visits to solicit gifts and we’re very hopeful of achieving and exceeding our goal.”

Ed Beaver, outside groups usage coordinator, added that many groups and organizations use the youth center facility for a variety of activities including youth ministries, sports practices and birthday parties. With the addition of the parking lot, the officers aim to not only increase safety for local youth, but also encourage more people to come to the center. Fall programming is set to begin on Tuesday, Sept. 11 with arts and crafts for children in grades four through eight. Activities for students in grades nine through 12 will begin on Thursday, Sept. 13.

The campaign has already received more than $20,000 toward its goal, with $15,000 made on behalf of a personal donation. Groups and organizations interested in contributing to the campaign are encouraged to contact a DeLauter officer or mail directly to the center.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $3.92/week.

Subscribe Today