NEW COMMUNITY CENTER DEDICATION and OPEN-HOUSE
The Salvation Army of Petoskey will hold a building dedication ceremony followed by an open house at its new Community Center located at 2350 Mitchell Park Drive in Petoskey on Saturday, June 15th. The dedication ceremony will begin at 10AM followed by refreshments and building tours through 12PM. The project began in November 2023 and is has exceeded the original estimated budget due to unforeseen renovation challenges. Renovations are on schedule to be completed by May 30, 2024.
“We are extremely blessed to have support from generous, compassionate community members that allowed us to renovate and relocate to a facility that has the capacity to house essential programs needed to meet current and future needs of struggling neighbors. While our renovation budget included money for unforeseen expenses, we couldn’t anticipate everything that we have encountered” says Corps Administrator and Pastor, Envoy Roman Hank. “Thankfully, we had financial reserves in place for unforeseen needs, but would greatly appreciate any help to replenish them so we may continue serving our community for many years to come”.
The new facility addresses many issues surrounding the prior Community Center which was sold in the beginning of January 2024. Compared to our previous building, it is barrier free, has ample parking, green space for children to play outdoors and provides room to expand needed programs and services. Recently a new Kitchen Manager position was filled to oversee the newly installed commercial kitchen operations including all meal planning, preparation and services which will allow weekly congregate meals to be served in the center’s community room.
Although the public has not been able to be permitted to enter the building during renovations due to safety regulations, essential Salvation Army services continued. The Emergency Financial Assistance Program that provides heat, electricity, emergency auto repair and other services to individuals and families, continues to operate via phone and internet appointments. The children’s Bible Adventure Corps Program, held each weekday afternoon, was temporarily relocated through the end of the 2024 school year. Meal Delivery continued through April with the help of the Petoskey Church of Christ and afterwards through a partnership with Jimmy John’s that will last until the commercial kitchen is operational.
The Salvation Army of Petoskey helps many individuals and families each year. To give, please visit SAPetoskey.org online and click on “Donate Now” or drop-off or mail checks to The Salvation Army of Petoskey located at 2350 Mitchell Park Drive, Petoskey, MI 49770. You can also donate gently used items and shop at The Salvation Army Thrift Store located at 1615 Clarion Ave in Petoskey. Proceeds support local programs and services.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information about our ministries, programs, or services, please visit www.SAPetoskey.org or call (231) 347-3531.