The Jacksonville Community Center (JCC) is officially open for business! Celebrating more than 20 years of efforts by volunteers and donors, JCC held its Grand Opening on January 12, 2019. Standing in the new Great Room, more than 80 people heard President Rick Patsche, on behalf of the JCC Board, thank the hundreds of volunteers, donors, local organizations and foundations that contributed more than $720,000 in cash and thousands of hours of effort to make this dream come true. Mayor Paul Becker called the Community Center the envy and need of every small town. Jacksonville 8th-grader Sarah Metwally declared, “We need programs, activities and classes for all ages.” Dozens of people offered written suggestions of programs and activities that they would like to see at their community center.

Featured Image: Some of the more than 80 happy people who celebrated the Grand Opening of the Jacksonville Community Center on January 12, 2019 – a sample of the potential users from young children to Founding Board Member, 93-year-old Liz Purcell.

Myth Busters: 4 myths about the Jacksonville Community Center:

#1: JCC is a senior center.

Reality: JCC is a Community Center for people of all ages. We want to be able to hold infant, toddler and pre-school activities, parents’ groups, after school options, as well as activities for middle and high school students. We want classes for adults of all ages and activities that will focus on our older population. The sky is the limit!

#2: JCC is all paid for.

Reality: It is true that more than $720,000 has been raised to construct, equip and furnish the Center but we still need to raise about $20,000 to conclude our capital campaign. We have hired a Director, Emily Saunders, and the Center has an annual operating budget to pay expenses. Thus far there has been strong interest in rental of the Center’s spaces; we anticipate that rental income will cover nearly half of our operating budget. However, donations from “Friends of JCC” will be needed to help meet our annual operating budget and demonstrate continued community support.

#3: Since JCC has paid staff we don’t need volunteers.

Reality: Our Director is part-time. But more important, Jacksonville is built on volunteerism. We need volunteers to help staff the Center; teach classes and lead activities, develop programs, fund raise, serve on committees, and serve as Board Members. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Emily at jacksonvillecenterdirector@gmail.com or call her at 541-702-2585.

#4: JCC isn’t really open for business.

Reality: Several holiday parties and meetings were held in the Great Room, followed by an Appreciation Reception on January 10 and our official Grand Opening on January 12, each attended by more than 80 people. Carpeting, acoustical panels and window treatments have made the entire center attractive and functional. We can accommodate an activity, party or program from 5 people to 100 people. Our rental rates are very reasonable. Contact Emily to schedule a rental.