Community comes together at new Ava center

Opening day at the Ava Community Center brought residents together for food, fellowship and a first look at the new community space. The center opened Wednesday, July 1, at 109 North Spring Street in Ava.

 

The Ava Community Center opened its doors Wednesday, July 1, with a focus on providing a welcoming space for residents to gather, share meals, take part in activities and build community connections.

Located at 109 North Spring Street in Ava, the center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Its stated mission is centered around friendship, activities, nutritious meals, health and wellness, support and connection.

The opening marked a new chapter for community services in Ava. Center staff and supporters have emphasized that the goal moving forward is to create a positive, inclusive place where people of all ages can feel welcome.

Sherry Wallace, director of the Ava Community Center, said the center’s first day was a success and expressed gratitude for the support she received from others.

“I could not have done it without all the help I have received,” Wallace said. “I am so humbled by everyone asking what they could do to help.”

Wallace said the day was filled with visiting and community support, and thanked those who came out for the center’s opening.

The center also thanked Faith Rock Church for donating desserts and sides for the opening day meal. Lunch was served free of charge as residents gathered for food, fellowship and a first look at the community space.

Wallace has worked for the City of Ava for 15 years and said her first priority is making seniors happy while also adding more opportunities and activities for the broader community. She has said she wants to offer activities for all ages and looks forward to helping make the community center a success.

The center has also introduced several staff members and community helpers through public flyers. Cynthia “Cyndi” Garcia serves as cook and brings years of experience preparing food for restaurants, neighborhood children, Fulton State Hospital and others. Garcia said she enjoys meeting new people and believes in kindness, compassion and treating others with respect.

Other featured community center staff members include Autum Miller and Christy Belfield. Miller, a lifelong Ava resident, said family is her foundation and shared that she is excited about the opportunity to contribute to and serve the community. Belfield, who retired from Copeland four years ago, said she believes in the importance of community and helping others, and looks forward to meeting new faces, building relationships and making a positive difference.

The center has also announced Betty’s Prize Bingo Superstore, a program allowing participants to earn “Bingo Bucks” during games and use them toward prizes. According to the center’s bingo information, prizes may include candy bars and soda, meals, mystery prizes, gift baskets and gift cards. A special Super Bingo event is planned for the last Friday of each month during the last game of the day.

In addition to daytime offerings, the community center has teased future evening opportunities, including activities, how-to classes, clubs and groups. Possible offerings listed include fitness and wellness, games and recreation, arts and crafts, live music, cooking and nutrition, technology basics, DIY projects, budgeting, book club, crafting circle and gardening club.

The Ava Community Center continues to invite residents of all ages to connect, learn and gather as the new community space begins serving Ava.