Photo Credit: © Can Stock Photo Inc. / Kurhan
In January 2000, the Lower Paxton Township Parks and Recreation Department (Harrisburg, Penn.), completed construction of a 59,000-square-foot recreation facility called The Friendship Center, to house the community’s numerous activities. The facility was a dream-come-true for many members.
The opening of the facility was spectacular! Everyone from families to senior citizens purchased memberships, and within the first 3 months we exceeded our first-year goal. There were programs to accommodate everyone: fitness, aquatics, gymnasium activities, aerobics, classes targeting preschoolers, etc.
However, as the years passed, the community—like many others—was affected negatively by the poor economy. Since recreation was not on the “essential list” for many people, it was one of the first items cut from their monthly expenses. Recognizing these financial struggles, the recreation department searched for ways to offer affordable sports, fitness, and recreational activities.