clarkstoncommunitycenter.org

Keeping warm at the CCC

McKenzie Wren, Executive Director
Clarkston Community Center

Winter brings with it its own challenges for the CCC. Our  building, while beautiful and renovated just a few years ago, nonetheless still has 91 year old bones which feel the cold.  Our historic designation means we had to keep our original windows which let in the light but also the cold! Everyone is bundled up and and always grateful for any sun that streams through the windows in the late afternoon. Despite the weather, there is a lot of heat-producing activity going on!

Bobby King's GED classes bring a wide array of students seeking to improve their chances of creating a new life here in the US. Former civil engineers, lawyers, teachers plus those whose schooling was interrupted due to displacement come to the CCC twice a week to study for the GED. King applies  advanced English to the GED preparation for a personalized track of study. This program is an all-volunteer program, including King himself. The CCC is proud to have such dedicated volunteers making a difference in the community and looks forward to securing funding for this phenomenal program.

Both the CCC and Center for Pan Asian Community Services after school programs keep the halls hopping with youth of many ages and cultures. CCC youth do weekly art and music along with homework, and CPACS kids receive job training, work in the garden and on computers as well as improving their academics.

Come by any Friday for a scene that will truly warm your heart: Paula Larke's CULTURE program fills the halls with the sound of young guitarists, violinists and song writers, all taught by volunteer musicians.

Physical activity is always the best way to stay warm and the CCC offers numerous ways to get moving. Contra dancing on Friday nights, Tai Chi on Tuesdays and Zumba! on Sundays will get your blood moving and yoga on Wednesday evening will warm your soul.

Things to look for in the new year: New farmers market, girls soccer team, teen iniative meetings, monthly open mics for adults and teens, expansion of the food bank, creation of a food co-op and so much more!