Staff writer
Marion Youth Advancement Committee has raised more than $20,000 to establish a youth center, organizer Amy Kjellin said.
That is enough to purchase a building, but MYAC needs more to renovate and furnish it. The organization’s goal is $30,000.
Fundraising began less than a year ago.
The center is envisioned to give teenagers a place for supervised recreation.
“Teens mostly want to hang out anyway,” Kjellin said.
The center also will need money for operations, including utilities and insurance, she said. Ongoing fundraising and sponsorships are possible sources. Volunteers would staff the center.
Activities at a center could include video games, table tennis, and pool, as examples.
Services such as tutoring and mentoring also could operate out of the center.
Kjellin points to the Hub in Peabody for an example of hours. Sometimes it is open to children of all ages. Other times it is restricted to high school students.
Organizers will discuss the next steps at a meeting of students and parents at 2:30 p.m. June 28 in Marion City Cuilding basement.
MYAC will provide concessions and an evening meal at the Heart of America Free-Flight Association Friday and Saturday at Marion Municipal Airport. Volunteers are needed to help prepare and serve.
For more information, contact Kjellin at (620) 381-0244.