06/04/2024
Good afternoon Borough residents,
We are excited to announce the upcoming conversion of St. John’s Church into a multi-use community center, a hub designed to serve the needs of our residents. This facility, located at 538 Thomas Street, will continue to host the Senior Center (Tuesdays & Thursdays from 9:30a – 1:15p), become the future home of Betty Lou's Food Pantry (transition date TBD), and provide a venue for music and art performances. Additionally, the center will be available for residents to rent for private events such as weddings, funerals, and other private gatherings (price list and calendar TBD). Many more details will be communicated in the future.
In the spirit of community involvement, we are requesting that residents participate in naming the new community building. We believe that the name should reflect the heritage and aspirations of our town.
Important information to consider:
- Historic Importance: St. John’s Church has been a presence in the community for over 100 years. The building is part of our landscape, and the members have sought to be an impact on our town through church services, events, fundraisers (Community Outreach Benefit), concerts, and volunteerism (way too many things to list in this write-up). The original land was donated by the Cooper family, building designed by Genaah Jordan, and has been the church home to numerous local families throughout many generations (baptisms, weddings, funerals, family gatherings). We appreciate their service over the decades and will strive to be good stewards of the building they chose to convey to the Borough. With solemn gratefulness, we will work hard to continue their legacy of community service.
- Senior Center: Continuing its tradition of providing a welcoming space for our senior residents, with various programs and activities to support their well-being. Program information: https://www.lehighcounty.org/Departments/Human-Services/Neighborhood-Senior-Centers/Locations/Coopersburg
- Betty Lou's Food Pantry: This vital resource will have a new, spacious home to better serve families in need. The move from its current location is yet to be determined (Likely 6 – 12 months of preparation and transition). They will continue to operate at St. James for the foreseeable future.
- Performance Venue: Hosting music and art performances, the facility will showcase local talent and enrich our community’s cultural life. Events will be advertised in the future, once coordinated with volunteers and musicians. Additionally, the facility neighbors Meadow Park, and gives the ability for environmental training, community gardening, scout projects, and outdoor events.
Private Event Rentals: Offering versatile space for private events such as weddings, funerals, and other gatherings. A price list for rentals will be determined and announced soon.
-----------------
Submit Your Naming Ideas: We invite all community members to submit their suggestions for the name of the new multi-use community center. Please submit your ideas by July 10, 2024, along with a brief explanation of why you believe your suggested name is fitting. Submissions can be made via email [email protected], mailed, or dropped off at Borough Hall - 5 N Main Street, Coopersburg PA 18036.
- Selection Process: A selection committee composed of community representatives will review all submissions. The chosen name will be announced with the upcoming announcement of the first community concert event.
We look forward to your creative and thoughtful contributions. This is a community-driven initiative, and your participation is crucial in making the facility a place that truly belongs to everyone.
Multiple name entries are acceptable, and participation is not limited to only borough residents. Any negative or profane entries will be immediately deleted.
Send the suggested name, a brief description of why you would like the name considered, and your contact information. Submit by email, mail, or drop-off at Borough Hall by July 10, 2024.
For more information, please contact the Borough Office at 610-282-3307 or [email protected]
