The Mosser Village Family Center has established itself as the focal point for community involement in the Keck Park/Mosser School neighborhoods on the east side of Allentown. Since taking occupancy in the newly renovated Keck Pool building in late 2004, the Center now offers a more comprehensive array of community services to its residents. We thank the City of Allentown for renovationg the building, specifically designed to accommodate the programs and services we now provide.

Mosser Village Family Center partners with collaborating agencies and individuals to address the basic needs of a changing east side Allentown community. Besides partnering with the City of Allentown, we work jointly with Lehigh County Juvenile Probation to do clean ups and provide pick up and delivery of our food bank orders. The Center provides youth mentoring, after school programs in conjunction with the Mosser Elementary School, coordinates with Sacred Heart Hospital regarding family health issues, provide meeting space for an number of agencies to conduct exercise classes for seniors, Bible study, sewing classes or bingo for adults, and receive donations of food, clothing and other basic life necessities from a varity of private and public sources. The Center Staff have been very successful in forging these partnerships and masterful in securing grants to sustain the organization.

I have found the staff to be very dedicated, professional and committed to conveying a strong sense of caring and commmitment to the motto "Everyone is Welcome". In a time when neighbors are in transition and many of the residents are in need of connecting to basic human services, Mosser Village extends its services as the "good neighbor" to lend a helping hand. Those in need can come to the Center and receive food, clothing and other basic needs. Staff helps residents connect with the community resources that help sustain their families.

There are numerous outreach programs for all area residents including summer recreation and after school programs for youth, adult computer & sewing classes for adults, candidate's nights, turkey bingo and movie nights to name a few. These activities help to draw in and encourage neighbors to participate and share in their community.

I am pleased to be a part of the Mosser Village Family Center, and I commend my fellow board members, the partner agencies and the staff and volunteers for dedication and efforts in making our Center a vital community builder and resource.

Sincerely,

Jim Carlisle
President, Mosser Village Family Center