What’s happening: As it stands today, a nonprofit working to enhance the lives of Manchester area senior citizens has been doing so without a space to call their own. That could all change soon as a unique partnership has formed to build out an underused space at Manchester City Hall and transform it into a new Senior and Community Center.
What’s planned: The Manchester Area Seniors Citizens (MASC) nonprofit has partnered with the City of Manchester to build a Senior and Community Center at City Hall. The city itself has offered a 1,200 sq. ft. slice of the building to the nonprofit – rent-free – for the eventual development of a permanent community center that offers daily services, monthly activities, annual events, and more.
What’s needed: The 1200 sq. ft. space is currently being utilized as a cold storage area and will require some work to transform it into a functioning community center. On the docket includes infrastructure demands, including HVAC, plumbing, wiring, and more, as well as upgrades that include two new large windows for views of the Raisin River, a door for riverside patio access, comfortable seating areas, and more.
How they’re doing it: The Manchester Area Senior Center and Community Event Center project has been accepted into the state’s placemaking initiative Public Spaces Community Places, a joint effort from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity. As part of the initiative, organizers have launched a $50,000 crowdfunding campaign on the Michigan-based Patronicity platform. Should they successfully reach their goal by Tuesday, Sep. 3, the MEDC will contribute a $50,000 matching grant to the project.
Learn more about the Manchester Area Senior Center and Community Event Center project
on Patronicity.
Why it’s important: “Throughout our history the Manchester area senior citizens have depended upon others to provide a space for critical services,” says Pat Vailliencourt, Director of the Senior Center. “For the first time, thanks to the PSCP grant opportunity, will be able to provide a safe, permanent facility for our seniors to have meals and engage in educational, healthy lifestyles and social activities.”
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