Welcome!

Welcome to the Northwestern Community Youth Center blog! I will attempt to keep this as up-to-date as possible, and post information on new events and updates on what is happening inside The Center! Later today, I'll post information on our Summer Park Program and the renovations taking place inside our building.

First though, I'd like to introduce myself to those of you who haven't had the opportunity to meet me. My name is Julie, and I was hired as Director last October (2008). I grew up in East Springfield and attended schools in the Northwestern School District from K-12, graduating in 2001. Following graduation, I enrolled at Otterbein College in Westerville, OH. In 2006 I graduated with a BA in Religion with a minor in Sociology. I moved back home in 2008 to take this position and am thrilled to have (in my opinion) the best job ever!

I would also like to take this first opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has supported me, and the youth center as a whole. To our amazing board of directors: Thank you for your faith in me, this program, and our area's youth. To the Northwestern School District, our local churches, and our individual donors: Thank you for your continued support and your dedication to meeting the needs of these kids. To our snack ladies (and gents!): Your unselfish example has really impacted a number of our students, as have your wonderful baked goods! We all truly appreciate the effort you put into your work. And finally, to my dedicated volunteers: Thank you for the hours of patience, hard work and dedication to these kids. We couldn't do it without you!

Up next: Summer Park Program and renovation information!