The Warren Twp. Community Center provides various activities, events, and services to build a stronger community. Our Center includes a Cafeteria, Kitchen, Gym, Game Room, Meeting Room, Loft Resale Shop, Playground and more....
CAR SHOW RECAP
We had a beautiful day for our car show yesterday! Here are just a few of our entries, about 100 in all, with just some of the wonderful people who brought them. Word of the day - GREAT! Thanks to everyone who came out. Lots of great cars and motorcycles! Lots of great people. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, with special thanks to Jeff for a great show, Elaine for the great food, Maggie for the great efforts for the garage sale and the over 20 great volunteers who helped pull it all together. Thank you, Sara, for taking the great photos. We have a GREAT community! See what i mean - GREAT! Thank you everyone!!! We are blessed!
We have a great community!! Bring your family and friends to the WTCC on Memorial Day. Enjoy a lunch of hamburgers, cheeseburgers, coneys and much more as well as our Silent Auction, then the parade led off by the American Legion Post 519, with the Mineral City, Fairfield Twp., and the Sherrodsville Fire Dept.'s, Smith Ambulance and more, with our remembrance ceremony immediately following in the cemetery.
***PICKLEBALL WILL BE PLAYING OUTSIDE AT TUSCORA PARK DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS AND WILL RESUME INSIDE AT THE WTCC IN NOVEMBER.
FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION EVENT -
SHOW SOME LOVE!
NEW SIGN PROJECT COMPLETED!!!
We are OVERWHELMED with gratitude!! This is Fantastic!!
SPECIAL THANKS to the Rosenberry Foundation and the families from Memorial Contributions from John Dutton, Tom Stoneman, and Dick Selzer to make this much needed improvement. We hope they would be pleased with such a permanent and substantial improvement to our building and efforts, in which we can honor their memory. We miss them. We will be adding a plaque with their names to the sign. Another example of God's amazing faithfulness and provision!!!
For the last 13 years or so we have been grateful for the letters sign donated by Glen and Naomi Burkey and the colorful name sign made by Harry Nichols. But over time they both needed repairs and changing the letters was challenging and limiting to say the least.
This new sign will allow us to communicate so much more information for the center, the trustees, the community and more.
Now, just to get the hang of using the new program to be sure everyone can read it! LOL Its a work in progress!
Thank you to Adam's Signs for a great job!
We are OVERWHELMED with gratitude!! This is Fantastic!!
SPECIAL THANKS to the Rosenberry Foundation and the families from Memorial Contributions from John Dutton, Tom Stoneman, and Dick Selzer to make this much needed improvement. We hope they would be pleased with such a permanent and substantial improvement to our building and efforts, in which we can honor their memory. We miss them. We will be adding a plaque with their names to the sign. Another example of God's amazing faithfulness and provision!!!
For the last 13 years or so we have been grateful for the letters sign donated by Glen and Naomi Burkey and the colorful name sign made by Harry Nichols. But over time they both needed repairs and changing the letters was challenging and limiting to say the least.
This new sign will allow us to communicate so much more information for the center, the trustees, the community and more.
Now, just to get the hang of using the new program to be sure everyone can read it! LOL Its a work in progress!
Thank you to Adam's Signs for a great job!
reeves grant -
new door project completed!!
Wow!!! We are so excited to have our new door project completed! They just finished right before Christmas and, after a couple adjustments, we are thrilled with our new doors. They were desperately needed and we could not be more grateful to the Reeves Foundation for their incredible generosity. They granted us $21,212 for these repairs. There is no way we could get this (and the many other projects they have made possible) done without their support and our building would literally be falling down around us! Some of our doors literally had rusted out holes in the doors and frames and thankfully Harry had put up some metal sheeting until they could be replaced.
Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude!! Everyone is so pleased with the new doors. They are obviously so much more energy efficient, they are much more durable and secure and I just can’t believe how much better they make our building look!! We are just so incredibly thankful! Its such an immense relief to have these replaced! What a tremendous blessing! God is Faithful to meet our needs!!! Thanks to Wayne Door for a great job!!
Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude!! Everyone is so pleased with the new doors. They are obviously so much more energy efficient, they are much more durable and secure and I just can’t believe how much better they make our building look!! We are just so incredibly thankful! Its such an immense relief to have these replaced! What a tremendous blessing! God is Faithful to meet our needs!!! Thanks to Wayne Door for a great job!!
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM-2021
We are delaying the start of our after-school program while we continue to look for additional volunteers.
We currently need an additional 5 volunteers.
(1-2) "IncrEDIBLEs" to prep and serve the food.
(1) Fun Fanatic to lead gym games, foster fitness, encourage teamwork, sportsmanship and more...
(1) Game Room Guru to play games, assist students in the practice of persistence, social skills, sportsmanship, and more...
(1) Arts and Crafts Coach to prep, instruct, assist in students in creating their next masterpiece while practicing find motor skills, promoting creativity, encouraging social skills, and more....
If you are interested in mentoring and making a difference in the lives of youth,
contact Portia King at 330-260-9528
We are delaying the start of our after-school program while we continue to look for additional volunteers.
We currently need an additional 5 volunteers.
(1-2) "IncrEDIBLEs" to prep and serve the food.
(1) Fun Fanatic to lead gym games, foster fitness, encourage teamwork, sportsmanship and more...
(1) Game Room Guru to play games, assist students in the practice of persistence, social skills, sportsmanship, and more...
(1) Arts and Crafts Coach to prep, instruct, assist in students in creating their next masterpiece while practicing find motor skills, promoting creativity, encouraging social skills, and more....
If you are interested in mentoring and making a difference in the lives of youth,
contact Portia King at 330-260-9528
CLEVELAND CLINIC/UNION HOSPITAL HEALTHY YOU HEART SCREENING
Appointments required! Monday, Oct. 11th, 9:00-11:00am / A five minute instant screening tests for total cholesterol, good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, as well as triglycerides and blood sugar. Most accurate results with a 12-hour fast. Cost: $9.00 / Call 330-602-0779 to register!!!
Appointments required! Monday, Oct. 11th, 9:00-11:00am / A five minute instant screening tests for total cholesterol, good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, as well as triglycerides and blood sugar. Most accurate results with a 12-hour fast. Cost: $9.00 / Call 330-602-0779 to register!!!
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK
Here we are beginning our 14th year of serving our community and its important to recognize that there would be no community center without our volunteers. We continue to be completely operated by the dedicated and heroic efforts of our WTCC volunteers. We started out with a handful of willing souls simply trying to start a couple programs, and have grown to over 80 volunteers helping in various capacities (with nearly 40 of those helping on a weekly basis, before COVID) with programs and special events of all kinds.
We are an imperfect and ordinary group of people that strives to do extraordinary things. We have learned much over the years and continue to learn from our mistakes, improve our services, and look to a bright future serving our community in a greater way.
We have a wonderful, caring, dedicated, hard working, creative, dependable, flexible, and MOSTLY FUN volunteer family. THANK YOU!!!
We are an imperfect and ordinary group of people that strives to do extraordinary things. We have learned much over the years and continue to learn from our mistakes, improve our services, and look to a bright future serving our community in a greater way.
We have a wonderful, caring, dedicated, hard working, creative, dependable, flexible, and MOSTLY FUN volunteer family. THANK YOU!!!
WE ARE A CLOSE KNIT GROUP - LOL
Thank you Haman Foundation
So grateful to the Haman Foundation for the $5,000 grant to help us get 2 new commercial refrigerators. This was a necessity that will enable us to continue to serve our meals. We had a leak in our existing double door fridge that the repairman said was too costly to simply repair and, we needed to replace our single door residential fridge, because it was not working properly and the Health Dept. said it needed replaced with a commercial unit! This was an absolute need that had to be taken care of and we are so thankful to the Haman Foundation for making this possible. We couldn't have done it without them. Total cost was $5,396. They are WONDERFUL!!!
So grateful to the Haman Foundation for the $5,000 grant to help us get 2 new commercial refrigerators. This was a necessity that will enable us to continue to serve our meals. We had a leak in our existing double door fridge that the repairman said was too costly to simply repair and, we needed to replace our single door residential fridge, because it was not working properly and the Health Dept. said it needed replaced with a commercial unit! This was an absolute need that had to be taken care of and we are so thankful to the Haman Foundation for making this possible. We couldn't have done it without them. Total cost was $5,396. They are WONDERFUL!!!
Thank you Reeves Foundation
We are so incredibly blessed!!! Another tremendous need we have had is to replace 6 of our exterior doors. Several of them have rusted holes through the metal and Harry had to put metal sheeting over them to cover the holes. Many of the frames are rusted out at the bottom as well. They are not energy efficient AT ALL! We got 2 estimates and will be scheduling work to be done with Wayne Door for a cost of $21,212.00 We will also be getting a handicapped button on our main door which will be very beneficial. We could never get this done without the Reeves Foundation's incredible generosity. So very thankful!!!
We are so incredibly blessed!!! Another tremendous need we have had is to replace 6 of our exterior doors. Several of them have rusted holes through the metal and Harry had to put metal sheeting over them to cover the holes. Many of the frames are rusted out at the bottom as well. They are not energy efficient AT ALL! We got 2 estimates and will be scheduling work to be done with Wayne Door for a cost of $21,212.00 We will also be getting a handicapped button on our main door which will be very beneficial. We could never get this done without the Reeves Foundation's incredible generosity. So very thankful!!!
COMING UP.....
- Tuscarawas County Public Library will be coming to the WTCC with their “Pop Up Library” beginning on Tuesdays, March 16th from 12:00-2:00 Stop in and grab a book or movie. (More events coming on Tuesdays.......)
- Our NEW CHAT ROOM/READING ROOM unveiling on Monday, March 16th. Our new LIBRARY SHELVES are complete and we are loading them with books for you to enjoy. Sooo Excited!!!! Will also be open on Tuesdays during “Pop Up Library” time from 12:00-2:00. HUGE THANK YOU TO DAN TOPE FOR BUILDING SHELVES, CRAIG STUTZ FOR SECURING THEM TO THE WALLS, AND TO TYLER AND TREVOR KING FOR PRIMING AND PAINTING THEM, FARRAH DERR, TYLER KING, TAMMIE DERR FOR HELPING TO LOAD BOOKS.
- BINGO is BACK on Mondays!!!! 12:30 (Covid Safety measures in place)
WE ARE BLESSED.........!!!
THANK YOU REEVES FOUNDATION!!!!
ROOFING PROJECT COMPLETED - Dec. 2019!!!
We desperately needed our roof over the gym and the roof over the game room and township room replaced! We are so grateful to the Reeves Foundation for their incredible generosity in granting us $85,090.00 to complete this necessary project!! We couldn't have done it without them!!!
ROOFING PROJECT COMPLETED - Dec. 2019!!!
We desperately needed our roof over the gym and the roof over the game room and township room replaced! We are so grateful to the Reeves Foundation for their incredible generosity in granting us $85,090.00 to complete this necessary project!! We couldn't have done it without them!!!
THANK YOU HAMAN FAMILY FOUNDATION - GRANT AWARD $2,699 FOR COMMERCIAL FREEZER March 2020
We are so grateful!! We really needed a Commercial Freezer and it has been a tremendous blessing!! We would not have been able to meet this need without them. THANK YOU!!!!
We are so grateful!! We really needed a Commercial Freezer and it has been a tremendous blessing!! We would not have been able to meet this need without them. THANK YOU!!!!
The Loft (Resale shop) at the WTCC
Opening Mondays, Beginning July 13th from 10:00-1:00
Excited to begin our reopening phase one. Lots of Bargains – Summer clothes at reduced prices, household items. Some great buys (garage sale) set up in our gym.
Loft now has air conditioning so stop by to get out of the heat.
We are following Ohio’s Dept. of Health guidelines for reopening to keep our guests safe. Guests are asked to wear a mask and maintain a 6ft between customers whenever possible. Guests will use the hand sanitizing station upon entry. We will be sanitizing high touch areas throughout the time and staggering entry into the Loft, when necessary, to maintain a limited capacity. If not feeling well, please stay home.
Soooo looking forward to seeing you again!!
Monday Lunch reopening coming in August.......
Opening Mondays, Beginning July 13th from 10:00-1:00
Excited to begin our reopening phase one. Lots of Bargains – Summer clothes at reduced prices, household items. Some great buys (garage sale) set up in our gym.
Loft now has air conditioning so stop by to get out of the heat.
We are following Ohio’s Dept. of Health guidelines for reopening to keep our guests safe. Guests are asked to wear a mask and maintain a 6ft between customers whenever possible. Guests will use the hand sanitizing station upon entry. We will be sanitizing high touch areas throughout the time and staggering entry into the Loft, when necessary, to maintain a limited capacity. If not feeling well, please stay home.
Soooo looking forward to seeing you again!!
Monday Lunch reopening coming in August.......
May 18th, 2020
SHUTDOWN UPDATE: Well, not sure yet when we will be able to re-open the Warren Twp. Community Center. Our Monday lunches include many of our senior population and those considered "most vulnerable" so we are continuing to wait for Governor DeWine to discuss senior and community centers and when they can re-open. We want to be sure we protect our cherished guests, as well as our valuable volunteers. Sadly, we will NOT be having any MEMORIAL DAY events this year. We sure miss everyone and can't wait to serve our community again soon.
SHUTDOWN UPDATE: Well, not sure yet when we will be able to re-open the Warren Twp. Community Center. Our Monday lunches include many of our senior population and those considered "most vulnerable" so we are continuing to wait for Governor DeWine to discuss senior and community centers and when they can re-open. We want to be sure we protect our cherished guests, as well as our valuable volunteers. Sadly, we will NOT be having any MEMORIAL DAY events this year. We sure miss everyone and can't wait to serve our community again soon.
ATTENTION:
The WARREN TWP. COMMUNITY CENTER will be CLOSED beginning Friday March 13 through Sunday, April 5th in an attempt to slow down the spread of the Coronavirus and protect our most vulnerable population. We are following this recommendation by Governor DeWine and our local Health Officials. Our Upcoming events, the Tusky Valley's Family Game Night, History Day and our Soup Off/Talent Show will be rescheduled at a later time. We will continue to monitor this constantly changing situation and plan accordingly. Thank you for your support and understanding! Stay Healthy!!! If you have any questions, please call 330-260-9528.
The WARREN TWP. COMMUNITY CENTER will be CLOSED beginning Friday March 13 through Sunday, April 5th in an attempt to slow down the spread of the Coronavirus and protect our most vulnerable population. We are following this recommendation by Governor DeWine and our local Health Officials. Our Upcoming events, the Tusky Valley's Family Game Night, History Day and our Soup Off/Talent Show will be rescheduled at a later time. We will continue to monitor this constantly changing situation and plan accordingly. Thank you for your support and understanding! Stay Healthy!!! If you have any questions, please call 330-260-9528.
We are excited to partner with Tuscarawas Valley Local School District to provide this family game night for our district's families!!! Come on out!!!
We want to express out deepest appreciation to Bob Stratton, Pat Beamer and the Marine Toys for Tots program for the wonderful toys for our After-School and Mommy & Me Programs. What a tremendous blessing to our kids. We are so very grateful!! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!
We wish Sharon and Jeff Loucks all the best
on their next adventure!
Coming up!
Updated History day information.....
FROM THE DESK OF pORTIA kING.......closing out 2018
As we celebrate this wonderful holiday season, and bring 2018 to a close, it’s always a time of reflection as we pause to count our blessings at Thanksgiving, celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas, and ring in a new year full of hope and excitement for what God is going to do. I wanted to share about God’s wonderful provision and blessings here at the WTCC this past year.
In 2018, The Warren Twp. Community Center just celebrated its 10 year anniversary providing various services over the years. We celebrated with a 10 year anniversary party and took time to show our appreciation to Mr. Mark Murphy (Tusky Valley Local Schools Superintendent) and the TVLS Board of Education for selling the building to the Warren Twp. Trustees for $1.00. We then also thanked the Warren Twp. Trustees (Bill McDonnell, Jeff Latimer, Todd Miller, previous trustee Jay VanNatter, and fiscal officer Mary Ellen Gooding, for taking on the responsibilities of the building and allowing it to be used as a community center. Their support has been tremendous. We even celebrated serving our “500th” Monday Lunch. It has all been possible due to the unwavering efforts of dedicated volunteers. Volunteers average over 11,000 hours to serve this community each year. Because there are no paid staff, the WTCC has no annual payroll or benefit expenses. There is no levy that provides funding for the community center. We have received monetary support from many area foundations, generous individuals, many fundraisers, as well as area churches, (and even partnered with the Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools, and their 21st century grant, for the after-school program) with all the funds going to programs and operations.
In 2018, we received two grants. First was from the SISTERS of CHARITY FOUNDATION (of Canton) in the amount of $8,532.00, for assistance with our Monday Lunch Program. This was invaluable in allowing us to increase our meals delivered to shut ins, cover our utility costs, increase the number of people served, while keeping us from having a deficit. We are so very grateful for their support. We also received a grant from the REEVES FOUNDATION in the amount of $21,345.00 to replace the old original furnace with 3 new high efficiency furnaces and 3 new air conditioners. These new furnaces will be much more reliable and efficient (desperately needed) and having A/C in the rest of the building will be a huge benefit as well. We anticipate reducing our heating cost by 50%. Work was completed by Simpson Heating and Cooling and we appreciate all their efforts to complete this project. This support, quite literally, helps keep our doors open.
We then completed two other necessary projects this year. One was to thoroughly clean, repaint, and reorganize our pantry room. In addition to paint, we purchased clear totes to keep items clean and dry as well as purchasing new, clean, floor nonskid mats. It needed to be done to provide the best sanitary environment for our food storage. The second necessary project was to repair and repaint the ceiling in the kitchen after damage was caused from the leaking roof. (In 2017, we wrote a grant to the Reeves Foundation and completed the project of completely replacing the roof over our cafeteria, kitchen and upstairs restroom (it was desperately needed to say the very least – many leaks). These types of projects provide a clean food service environment, keep us in good standing with the Health Dept., and ultimately help us maintain our Food Service License. Both projects were necessary yet also cost money to complete. But we are grateful to have these necessary repairs made.
Each Monday lunch was provided from 11:00-1:00, for a free will donation, mainly for seniors but often includes families and others. Bingo, free internet, Wi-Fi and laptop usage and much more were also provided with an average of 120 people served. Currently, also on Mondays, approximately 20 meals are delivered to area shut-ins. “Mommy and Me” preschool program (19 enrolled), and K-8th grade after-school program (Thursdays), were also services provided. An average of 50 students (total of 72 different students enrolled) participate each week, and about 10 high school volunteers (youth leaders) working off school required community service hours.
2018’s Other Blessings Include:
Blessed by Bob Stratton and the Marines Toys for Tots program for our After-school program, Mommy and Me, and Reason for the Season Families.
Blessed by Dick and Mary Ellen Gooding with our new live Christmas tree planted in the front of the building. Hopefully to be used for years to come.
Blessed with Katherine Simmons (she has a new married name) from the Tuscarawas County Library coming on Mondays to do a “Pop Up” library bringing books and movies for check-out and the new purple mini library located in the center’s driveway for all to pick up books at any time.
Blessed by Union Hospital for providing Health Screenings here..
Blessed by the Atwood Area Fall Festival Committee for allowing us the opportunity to work the gate as a fundraiser and their wonderful generosity.
Blessed by Virgil and Sandy Mounts for getting the dead tree in our front yard taken care of and Bert Nichols (Atwood Lawn and Tree Service) for grinding the stump.
Blessed by an anonymous donor to fix 2 of our upstairs toilets that had needed repaired for quite some time.
Blessed by the Tusky Valley Local School District through the “Pay It Forward” Program, After-School program partnership, Summer Free Lunch Program, “Back to School” Bash and more…..
Blessed by Lake Drive Fellowship Church (Pastor Larry & Sharon Stitt) for their support through many donations, volunteering, prayers and more.
Blessed by Kathy Stotzer for her generosity with our Veterans program.
Blessed by so many raising nearly $2, 400 for our Reason for the Season Campaign with the opportunity to show God's love to 7 families, 14 children and more.
Blessed by the many individuals who made monetary donations that have helped us keep going!!!
Our Volunteers are our Treasure:
Blessed by Harry Nichols, who has been an invaluable partner and assistant from the very beginning, whose contributions are many!!! So many roles he plays….from maintenance, supply runner, builder, dishwasher, pie baker, t-shirt supplier, trash guy, menu e-mailer, photographer, promoter, to sign maker, just to name a few.
Blessed by Sharon and Jeff Loucks for the many hats they wear from Mommy & Me, the Loft, Bingo, the Women’s Tea, Raffle Baskets, New Year’s Party, painting projects and sooooo much more.
Blessed by Elaine Milhorn for taking on the responsibility of our Monday Lunch meals from planning to cooking. And not only took over the pie baking but also volunteers to make and sell pies for order.
Blessed by Patti Frink (our cake and other dessert maker) and Theresa Rummes who also help Elaine and Patti in preparing Monday Lunch. They are a wonderful team.
Blessed by Ruth Berry (also greets Monday Lunch patrons and works in the Loft), Beverly Stoneman (tirelessly makes cole slaw and pickled eggs each week), Shirley Latimer, Harry Nichols, Sharyn Gates and others who deliver lunches each Monday to those who cannot get out to our facility.
Blessed by Sharyn Gates, Hallie Selzer, Judy Hammel, Larry Stitt, Jill Nichols, Gerald Sanders, and Elaine Murphy, Rick Sheeler, Virgil and Sandy Mounts and Clarence Cantrill who faithfully serve lunch each Monday with cheer, as well as help with our special events, jumping in wherever needed.
Blessed by Bridgett Thompson, Maggie Taylor (who also puts together wonderful raffle baskets and helps with special events), Rick Cottrell, Linda Newell, Joyce Knight, Ruth Berry , and Theresa who work so diligently in our Loft resale shop, keeping things looking inviting and organized.
Blessed by Sharon Loucks, Bridgett Thompson, Chelsea Conkey who faithfully and cheerfully serve our families with the creative, educational and fun Mommy & Me Preschool Program.
Blessed by Harry Nichols, Tammie Derr, Dottie Stoneman, Amanda Stoneman, Tanea Levengood, Larry Stitt, Sharon Stitt, Sharyn Gates, Theresa Rummes, Brandi Peoples, and Tyler King who so faithfully and cheerfully serve our youth and families during our after-school program.
Blessed by Jill Nichols who has willingly and cheerfully taken over many of the weekly cleaning duties.
Blessed by Misty, Craig, Ryann, and Kadence Stutz, Ed, Joann, Emily, and Lindsey Eggan, Trudy Hobart, Christie, Brandi, and Anthony Peoples, Rick and Vicki Archer, Karl and Amy Tate Matthus, Matthew Harkless, Gloria and Vern Keiffer, Taunia Maple, Beth Brink, Trisha Ramser, Kelly Daniels, Mary Ellen Gooding, Bill McDonnell, Jeff Latimer, Todd Miller, Dick Selzer, Frank Brannon, Karl King, Tyler King and Trevor King, who so willingly jump in to help with special events and whenever needed.
Blessed by Jeff Latimer (Warren Twp. Trustee) for hosting our first “History Day” and the Car Show, Memorial Day Service and parade, and working so hard for our Veterans Appreciation Program.
Blessed by Jay VanNatter for his wonderful Chicken BBQ at the Car Show.
Blessed by Amber Sanatore who is assisting with grant writing.
Blessed by Ronnie Shaw for always coming to the rescue when one of our appliances decides to quit.
Blessed by our supporting families who allow us serve, serve, serve!!! (Blessed by Karl, Tyler, Trevor King and my mom, June Eggan, who put up with so much)
The contribution of these dedicated volunteers cannot be overstated and
the joy with which they serve is nothing short of remarkable!!!
To wrap this up - This is not all that we have done but a highlight of God’s amazing hand of blessing on the Warren Twp. Community Center. As we try to juggle all the demands of caring for our aging building, providing programs for our various populations from seniors, families, adults, youth to our regularly scheduled events and special events and all the supplies and volunteers needed, to fundraising, record keeping, custodial needs, seasonal decorating, advertising/promotion, volunteer appreciation, recruitment, orientation, community partnerships, etc.., it can often be..... overwhelming. Especially when we think of our goals and where we would really like to be and how to get there. And yes, how often we fall short of even our own expectations. But we forge ahead and as we plan for the future and how to grow from here, we are excited for what is to come and invite you to join our WTCC family, share your talents, be a blessing, make a difference!!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Portia King
WTCC Director
In 2018, The Warren Twp. Community Center just celebrated its 10 year anniversary providing various services over the years. We celebrated with a 10 year anniversary party and took time to show our appreciation to Mr. Mark Murphy (Tusky Valley Local Schools Superintendent) and the TVLS Board of Education for selling the building to the Warren Twp. Trustees for $1.00. We then also thanked the Warren Twp. Trustees (Bill McDonnell, Jeff Latimer, Todd Miller, previous trustee Jay VanNatter, and fiscal officer Mary Ellen Gooding, for taking on the responsibilities of the building and allowing it to be used as a community center. Their support has been tremendous. We even celebrated serving our “500th” Monday Lunch. It has all been possible due to the unwavering efforts of dedicated volunteers. Volunteers average over 11,000 hours to serve this community each year. Because there are no paid staff, the WTCC has no annual payroll or benefit expenses. There is no levy that provides funding for the community center. We have received monetary support from many area foundations, generous individuals, many fundraisers, as well as area churches, (and even partnered with the Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools, and their 21st century grant, for the after-school program) with all the funds going to programs and operations.
In 2018, we received two grants. First was from the SISTERS of CHARITY FOUNDATION (of Canton) in the amount of $8,532.00, for assistance with our Monday Lunch Program. This was invaluable in allowing us to increase our meals delivered to shut ins, cover our utility costs, increase the number of people served, while keeping us from having a deficit. We are so very grateful for their support. We also received a grant from the REEVES FOUNDATION in the amount of $21,345.00 to replace the old original furnace with 3 new high efficiency furnaces and 3 new air conditioners. These new furnaces will be much more reliable and efficient (desperately needed) and having A/C in the rest of the building will be a huge benefit as well. We anticipate reducing our heating cost by 50%. Work was completed by Simpson Heating and Cooling and we appreciate all their efforts to complete this project. This support, quite literally, helps keep our doors open.
We then completed two other necessary projects this year. One was to thoroughly clean, repaint, and reorganize our pantry room. In addition to paint, we purchased clear totes to keep items clean and dry as well as purchasing new, clean, floor nonskid mats. It needed to be done to provide the best sanitary environment for our food storage. The second necessary project was to repair and repaint the ceiling in the kitchen after damage was caused from the leaking roof. (In 2017, we wrote a grant to the Reeves Foundation and completed the project of completely replacing the roof over our cafeteria, kitchen and upstairs restroom (it was desperately needed to say the very least – many leaks). These types of projects provide a clean food service environment, keep us in good standing with the Health Dept., and ultimately help us maintain our Food Service License. Both projects were necessary yet also cost money to complete. But we are grateful to have these necessary repairs made.
Each Monday lunch was provided from 11:00-1:00, for a free will donation, mainly for seniors but often includes families and others. Bingo, free internet, Wi-Fi and laptop usage and much more were also provided with an average of 120 people served. Currently, also on Mondays, approximately 20 meals are delivered to area shut-ins. “Mommy and Me” preschool program (19 enrolled), and K-8th grade after-school program (Thursdays), were also services provided. An average of 50 students (total of 72 different students enrolled) participate each week, and about 10 high school volunteers (youth leaders) working off school required community service hours.
2018’s Other Blessings Include:
Blessed by Bob Stratton and the Marines Toys for Tots program for our After-school program, Mommy and Me, and Reason for the Season Families.
Blessed by Dick and Mary Ellen Gooding with our new live Christmas tree planted in the front of the building. Hopefully to be used for years to come.
Blessed with Katherine Simmons (she has a new married name) from the Tuscarawas County Library coming on Mondays to do a “Pop Up” library bringing books and movies for check-out and the new purple mini library located in the center’s driveway for all to pick up books at any time.
Blessed by Union Hospital for providing Health Screenings here..
Blessed by the Atwood Area Fall Festival Committee for allowing us the opportunity to work the gate as a fundraiser and their wonderful generosity.
Blessed by Virgil and Sandy Mounts for getting the dead tree in our front yard taken care of and Bert Nichols (Atwood Lawn and Tree Service) for grinding the stump.
Blessed by an anonymous donor to fix 2 of our upstairs toilets that had needed repaired for quite some time.
Blessed by the Tusky Valley Local School District through the “Pay It Forward” Program, After-School program partnership, Summer Free Lunch Program, “Back to School” Bash and more…..
Blessed by Lake Drive Fellowship Church (Pastor Larry & Sharon Stitt) for their support through many donations, volunteering, prayers and more.
Blessed by Kathy Stotzer for her generosity with our Veterans program.
Blessed by so many raising nearly $2, 400 for our Reason for the Season Campaign with the opportunity to show God's love to 7 families, 14 children and more.
Blessed by the many individuals who made monetary donations that have helped us keep going!!!
Our Volunteers are our Treasure:
Blessed by Harry Nichols, who has been an invaluable partner and assistant from the very beginning, whose contributions are many!!! So many roles he plays….from maintenance, supply runner, builder, dishwasher, pie baker, t-shirt supplier, trash guy, menu e-mailer, photographer, promoter, to sign maker, just to name a few.
Blessed by Sharon and Jeff Loucks for the many hats they wear from Mommy & Me, the Loft, Bingo, the Women’s Tea, Raffle Baskets, New Year’s Party, painting projects and sooooo much more.
Blessed by Elaine Milhorn for taking on the responsibility of our Monday Lunch meals from planning to cooking. And not only took over the pie baking but also volunteers to make and sell pies for order.
Blessed by Patti Frink (our cake and other dessert maker) and Theresa Rummes who also help Elaine and Patti in preparing Monday Lunch. They are a wonderful team.
Blessed by Ruth Berry (also greets Monday Lunch patrons and works in the Loft), Beverly Stoneman (tirelessly makes cole slaw and pickled eggs each week), Shirley Latimer, Harry Nichols, Sharyn Gates and others who deliver lunches each Monday to those who cannot get out to our facility.
Blessed by Sharyn Gates, Hallie Selzer, Judy Hammel, Larry Stitt, Jill Nichols, Gerald Sanders, and Elaine Murphy, Rick Sheeler, Virgil and Sandy Mounts and Clarence Cantrill who faithfully serve lunch each Monday with cheer, as well as help with our special events, jumping in wherever needed.
Blessed by Bridgett Thompson, Maggie Taylor (who also puts together wonderful raffle baskets and helps with special events), Rick Cottrell, Linda Newell, Joyce Knight, Ruth Berry , and Theresa who work so diligently in our Loft resale shop, keeping things looking inviting and organized.
Blessed by Sharon Loucks, Bridgett Thompson, Chelsea Conkey who faithfully and cheerfully serve our families with the creative, educational and fun Mommy & Me Preschool Program.
Blessed by Harry Nichols, Tammie Derr, Dottie Stoneman, Amanda Stoneman, Tanea Levengood, Larry Stitt, Sharon Stitt, Sharyn Gates, Theresa Rummes, Brandi Peoples, and Tyler King who so faithfully and cheerfully serve our youth and families during our after-school program.
Blessed by Jill Nichols who has willingly and cheerfully taken over many of the weekly cleaning duties.
Blessed by Misty, Craig, Ryann, and Kadence Stutz, Ed, Joann, Emily, and Lindsey Eggan, Trudy Hobart, Christie, Brandi, and Anthony Peoples, Rick and Vicki Archer, Karl and Amy Tate Matthus, Matthew Harkless, Gloria and Vern Keiffer, Taunia Maple, Beth Brink, Trisha Ramser, Kelly Daniels, Mary Ellen Gooding, Bill McDonnell, Jeff Latimer, Todd Miller, Dick Selzer, Frank Brannon, Karl King, Tyler King and Trevor King, who so willingly jump in to help with special events and whenever needed.
Blessed by Jeff Latimer (Warren Twp. Trustee) for hosting our first “History Day” and the Car Show, Memorial Day Service and parade, and working so hard for our Veterans Appreciation Program.
Blessed by Jay VanNatter for his wonderful Chicken BBQ at the Car Show.
Blessed by Amber Sanatore who is assisting with grant writing.
Blessed by Ronnie Shaw for always coming to the rescue when one of our appliances decides to quit.
Blessed by our supporting families who allow us serve, serve, serve!!! (Blessed by Karl, Tyler, Trevor King and my mom, June Eggan, who put up with so much)
The contribution of these dedicated volunteers cannot be overstated and
the joy with which they serve is nothing short of remarkable!!!
To wrap this up - This is not all that we have done but a highlight of God’s amazing hand of blessing on the Warren Twp. Community Center. As we try to juggle all the demands of caring for our aging building, providing programs for our various populations from seniors, families, adults, youth to our regularly scheduled events and special events and all the supplies and volunteers needed, to fundraising, record keeping, custodial needs, seasonal decorating, advertising/promotion, volunteer appreciation, recruitment, orientation, community partnerships, etc.., it can often be..... overwhelming. Especially when we think of our goals and where we would really like to be and how to get there. And yes, how often we fall short of even our own expectations. But we forge ahead and as we plan for the future and how to grow from here, we are excited for what is to come and invite you to join our WTCC family, share your talents, be a blessing, make a difference!!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Portia King
WTCC Director
So very thankful to the Marine Toys for Tots Program and Bob Stratton, for bringing such joy to our after-school program youth. This program also benefited our Mommy & Me Preschool program as well as our Reason for the Season families. What a tremendous blessing and we are grateful!!! THANK YOU!!!!!
After-School Program
Begins Thursday, Oct. 25th.
Starting off with our Fall Harvest Party
3:30-6:00 pm
Begins Thursday, Oct. 25th.
Starting off with our Fall Harvest Party
3:30-6:00 pm
THANK YOU MARINES CORPS RESERVE AND BOB STRATTON FOR ALLOWING US TO PARTICIPATE IN YOUR TOYS FOR TOTS PROGRAM AGAIN THIS YEAR. WHAT A TREMENDOUS BLESSING FOR OUR "REASON FOR THE SEASON" FAMILIES AS WELL AS OUR AFTER-SCHOOL STUDENTS!!!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! YOU DO A TREMENDOUS JOB AND WE ARE VERY GRATEFUL!!!!
DONATIONS MAY NOW BE MADE ONLINE THROUGH GoFundMe!! at http://www.gofundme.com/7lhmcs
Our Goal is to raise $4000.00 for our after-school program
and our Monday Lunches.
Thank You for your support!!
Our Goal is to raise $4000.00 for our after-school program
and our Monday Lunches.
Thank You for your support!!
Playground FACE LIFT
We would like to express our deepest appreciation and thanks to Christy (Levengood) Vachon for so willingly and cheerfully giving of herself, her talents, her creativity and her un-ending energy to tackle the task of giving our playground some much needed loving care. The first day over 40 volunteers gathered to weed, mulch, repair, scrape, stain and paint all around the playground and flower beds. It was great day and an all day effort that continued into the next week-end. It has proven to be an enormous undertaking with painting yet to complete. But, through intense heat, long hours, sticky paint, Christy has remained committed, stead-fast and most of all - incredibly joyful - she's amazing. On behalf of our entire community - THANK YOU!!!! It looks AWESOME!!! Check out some of the before and after pictures below. More photos to come......
A special thanks to NewPointe Community Church for including us in their Community Impact Day (what a blessing), to Christy's husband, Mike, for the many hours repairing and staining our picnic tables (as well as supporting all Christy's efforts here), Dave Barnett who has tirelessly (and so willingly even came out additional days) prepped our equipment, Yorktown Clovers 4-H club and many, many other volunteers for all your efforts.
Our hope is that when it is complete our kids and families will come out to enjoy it even more!
If anyone would like to help us finish up the painting - call Portia at 330-260-9528. Thanks very much!
A special thanks to NewPointe Community Church for including us in their Community Impact Day (what a blessing), to Christy's husband, Mike, for the many hours repairing and staining our picnic tables (as well as supporting all Christy's efforts here), Dave Barnett who has tirelessly (and so willingly even came out additional days) prepped our equipment, Yorktown Clovers 4-H club and many, many other volunteers for all your efforts.
Our hope is that when it is complete our kids and families will come out to enjoy it even more!
If anyone would like to help us finish up the painting - call Portia at 330-260-9528. Thanks very much!
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We're on Facebook - Thank you:
Nicole L. Willey, PhD, Associate Professor of English, Dr. Mariann Harding, Service-Learning Coordinator for Kent State University Tuscarawas and especially Eddie Eggan, Brittani Walton and Tyan LaVigne for all their hard work in creating our Face Book Page, User Manual, and Brochure for our community center. What a great help to our efforts to get the word out!! We are so excited and we couldn't have done it without you!!!!
Thank You!!!
Nicole L. Willey, PhD, Associate Professor of English, Dr. Mariann Harding, Service-Learning Coordinator for Kent State University Tuscarawas and especially Eddie Eggan, Brittani Walton and Tyan LaVigne for all their hard work in creating our Face Book Page, User Manual, and Brochure for our community center. What a great help to our efforts to get the word out!! We are so excited and we couldn't have done it without you!!!!
Thank You!!!
