A Place to Learn

A Place to Learn and Grow for the Kids of Willits

By Jay Gordon
Originally Published in the Willits Nickel & Dime 08-21-09

Willits, in so many ways, is like "the little engine that coud." When you survey the landscape of our little village, you have to be impressed by the range of civic projects that are successfully completed. One great source of wonder is the Willits Kids Club youth center, now near compltetion next to Blosser Lane Elementary School.

When you consider what passes for activity centers for children in most ommunities -- of any size -- this facility is truly amazing. A few days ago, I tagged along, as WKC Director, Kris Wagner gave a tour of the construction site to Willits Superintendent of Schools, Debra Kubin.

	Now that work on the 5,000 square foot youth center has recently resumed, the center should be ready for a grand opening by mid-November. For now, the evidence of good planning is evident everywhere. There are open spaces for multiple use, activity rooms, a kitchen, and designated places for office and storage. It’s a bright, cheery facility -- as it should be for children. Much of the activity will take place outdoors where sensible landscaping will provide a healthy play environment. You know how it is when you move to a new place. There are always things you need. I pressed WKC Secretary, Karen Oslund, for a list of what would help most. I know we all want to find a way to be a part of this historic accomplishment for Willits. If you can provide any of these items, e-mail Karen at koslund@earthlink.net or call her at 707.459.3056.

Now that work on the 5,000 square foot youth center has recently resumed, the center should be ready for a grand opening by mid-November. For now, the evidence of good planning is evident everywhere. There are open spaces for multiple use, activity rooms, a kitchen, and designated places for office and storage. It’s a bright, cheery facility -- as it should be for children. Much of the activity will take place outdoors where sensible landscaping will provide a healthy play environment.

You know how it is when you move to a new place. There are always things you need. I pressed WKC Secretary, Karen Oslund, for a list of what would help most. I know we all want to find a way to be a part of this historic accomplishment for Willits. If you can provide any of these items, e-mail Karen at koslund@earthlink.net or call her at 707.459.3056.

You may not be deliver items until the first week of October, but you can make a commitment -- and hear a sigh of relief -- now.

So, what can you contribute? Large and small door mats, conference tables and chairs as well as work desks and chairs. Are you a talented wood worker/carpenter who can help build the reception desk for the entryway? Do you have janitorial equipment to spare, such as new brooms, mops and buckets -- or even cleaning supplies?

There are so many artists in the area. Do any of you have easels to spare for the arts and crafts room? Go to www.willitskidsclub.org for a complete list of items needed. If you’re looking for a taxable donation to make by the end of the year and feel strongly about keeping kids healthy, $2 million would build a gym. Smaller amounts for the general fund can also work small miracles. Make your check payable to Willits Kids Club. Mail it to P. O. Box 1845, Willits, CA 95490. Anyone who makes a donation to the building fund of $100 or more will have their name included on a quilted wall hanging for the entryway that will incorporate children’s artwork.

If you can’t spare a donation at this time, your enthusiasm is still important. Please encourage and thank those who have been helping make this youth center a reality. You could start with WKC board members: Eric Glassey (President), Patty Bruder (Vice President), Karen Oslund (Secretary), Bill Jack (Treasurer), Clint Kelley, Gerry Gonzalez (also our Chief of Police for Willits), Kevin Erich (also President of Frank R. Howard Memorial Hospital), and Kristin Fraser. This project has also enjoyed vigorous support from city officials, countless teachers and parents, and from those precious beneficiaries -- the kids. Never underestimate the value of a smile and a hug as the currency of gratitude.