Kristi Kendrick, president of Believe in Beverly, the Beverly Community Association, has a vision. Beverly's community center was once a place where the people who lived there could gather in peace and enjoy their community. She wants to see that return and more.
"This place was a center of of youth activity," she said. "And this neighborhood is in need for such an outlet. I want to give Bevery's youngsters a place with a positive outlook. When we are done, this center will help bring them up as more rounded people. I want the Beverly community seeing us make a difference in their community. See us being positive and pass this on to them. We want to see them reciprocate, learn by example."
Twelve people showed up Saturday for the day's cleanup operation at the center, including three youth.
"The right people showed up and we got a lot done," Kendrick said. "This is phase one. The Beverly community is leasing this property to Amachivisioncorp. This Saturday kicked off this project. Lots of capital is needed. We welcome donations, but this will be a community-centered project. The goal is to get the doors open to the community as soon as we can. June 1 is the target for the main building being available to the neighborhood. The gym will take a bit longer."
"I'm excited about this project," said Barbara Stoker, one of the participants in Saturday's labors. "My son lived in Beverly, and this community center was a safe haven for him. When everyone came here, kids, parents, everyone was well behaved. I'm hoping we can encourage those who grew up here to come back and help us out with the project. Come back and give back."
Stoker lived here and raised children in Beverly. She now lives in Wake Village, and recounts a career as a crossing guard, including at Oak Lawn Elementary.
"I've been involved in these kinds of community projects for over 40 years," said Cynthia Moore, another volunteer. "I've been a director of such efforts elsewhere and I will continue to give back to the community in making a difference."
To keep up with the Beverly Community Center project, visit www.amachivision.org or give them a call at 903-244-6006.