When the all-volunteer construction crew of the Desert Hot Springs church turned their previously rented office complex into a new Community Services Center, little did they realize the warm reception they’d receive. Barely open two months, the center is holding classes in English as a second language, and as a result of the classes, 15 people have enrolled in Bible studies or requested baptism.
The hallmark opening on March 29 drew the attention of 100 visitors, a local TV station, and the editor of Christian News, a local paper.
Police Chief Walter McKinney welcomed the center, stating that it will be a resource where officers can refer families. Mabel Camp and Weldon Allen represented the Southeastern California Conference (SECC). Camp is president of the SECC Community Services Federation, and Allen is president of the Riverside County SECC Federation.
Remodeling began October 2005 on the building, which is adjacent to the Desert Hot Springs church at the corner of Palm Avenue and Third Street.
“Under the direction of skilled church members, the volunteers rearranged rooms, removed walls, cut new doors into rooms, and revamped the electrical system to make two offices, a major classroom, plus a smaller one, and storage. Then they gave the building a new coat of paint, all for a cost of about $8,000,” says Duane Anderson, assistant director of the new center. His wife, Norma Anderson is director. “Rooms at the far end of the building are still rented for office space.”
“Every Tuesday and Thursday our classrooms are filled to capacity with students studying English as a second language, taught by Maria Stratton and three tutors,” says Varner Leggitt, interim pastor. Howard Seely, M.D., will soon begin teaching health classes.
“The community is beginning to tell us what they want. They are now asking for stop smoking classes. The enthusiasm and vision of our members is taking the concept of community service to a new level,” emphasizes Leggitt. “We advertise the center to the new homes that are springing up around the town, where 13,000 new building permits have been issued recently.
“A few days ago a woman called the center worried about a scheduled legal hearing. The Andersons volunteered to go with her to the hearing. She is now a strong friend of the church,” said Leggitt.
With the mission statement, “To serve the poor and hurting in Christ’s name,” the Desert Hot Springs Adventist Community Center has a growing future as a part of a receptive community.
