SOLEDAD — Soledad Parks and Recreation Department hosted a grand-opening celebration for the revamped Soledad Community Center last Saturday.
Area leaders and community members alike were able to tour the new building on June 26, viewing not only the new paint job and equipment, but also learning about the new types of offerings.
One of the first visual changes noticeable on the exterior was the large letters that spelled out “Soledad Community Center” — the first time the location at 560 Walker Drive has had signage in its 30-year existence.
Inside, the staff of 29 part-time workers and two full-time managers is working toward providing programming for all ages.
Recreation Manager Rebecca Hall said the current focus is to target youth so families understand the center is available for everybody. From messy hands sensory programs for small children to sports offerings to new exercise equipment meant for senior citizens or those with disabilities, the center is aimed toward that inclusive goal.
Hall said there are currently two openings for full-time recreation coordinators to help come up with even more programming.
“We’re looking for instructors to help add programming,” Hall said. “Finding people qualified to teach who have an interest in giving back to their community.”
The new program ideas would be in addition to the various existing offerings, including family cooking classes that are enhanced by new kitchen equipment.
Community member Tony Virrueta noted the new cooking classes will teach better dietary habits for families, rather than the typical fallback of cooking with lard.
“You can work with so many of these fresh vegetables and have healthy diets,” Virrueta said about the classes.
Hall noted the new, lower rates would help families be able to afford multiple members attending programs. She also explained the new rate system makes it so participants can pay for programs without needing a facility-wide membership fee.
For those who find even the new rates out of reach, Hall said a new volunteer program is in the works for youth to exchange volunteer hours for program entry.
Memberships began July 1 for use of the gym.
Virrueta said youth outreach is an important goal for the center and the community at large.
“Instead of being reactive and having the police department handle some of these youth, especially during the summer, having programs here to get involved in organized sports and gain discipline as well, is being proactive toward the future,” he said.
Throughout the Soledad Community Center, some of the improvements were large while others small, but they all were noticeable as a shift in the building.
The front countertops are wider to accommodate modern technology, rather than being narrow. A slatwall announcement board at the entrance can hold fliers or brochures even with the harsh South Monterey County winds. The aging telescoping bleachers have been removed and are scheduled to be replaced.
In addition, office spaces have been set up at the front to enhance customer service.
