LEROY’S HOPE CENTER OFFERS NON-DENOMINATIONAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH

from Dansville-Wayland- Genesee Valley Penny Saver- 6-30-23

NOTICE Town of Wayland Planning Board Meeting Change

BY DANNY LINSNER

Aer years of prayers and unwavering determination, Pastor Jack Hemp ing’s vision for a community outreach center in LeRoycametolife.Inspiredbytheguidingprinciplesofhope and center, Hemp ing, who served as the Pastor of Living Waters Church,envisionedaplacethatwouldwelcomeeveryone,beyondthe boundaries of any particular church.

In 2017, the Hope Center of LeRoy opened its doors under the leadership of Rev. Henry Moore, serving as a “Christ-centered community Outreach Ministry providing spiritual and material supporttoourcitizens.” eHopeCenteraimsto“liveouttheloveof Christ by serving and supporting the community through programs and partnerships. As a 501(c)3 Christian nonpro t that relies upon the support of nancial partners and those who serve as volunteers, our programs o er hope in tangible ways to those who are struggling regardless of age, race, socio-economic status, or other distinctions.” e Hope Center operates with a dedicated team comprising paid employees, volunteers, fundraising committee members,andboardmembers.DianeSiaassumedtheleadershiprole in July 2022, working alongside Lori Parmenter, the Hope Center’s Administrative Assistant.

Aligned with their mission, the Hope center aims to collaborate with other community-minded organizations to deliver the best programs in LeRoy. eir commitment lies in being receptive to the needs of the community, prayerfully considering their ability to address those needs, and cherishing relationships with those who join them in service, as well as those they serve.

Among the cornerstone programs initiated by the Hope Center is Fresh Start Tutoring, coordinated by Program director Amy ompson. is initiative o ers a comprehensive family literacy and math program for LeRoy and its surrounding areas. Struggling students from grades K to 6 receive free 30-minute weekly tutoring sessions with trained volunteers. e Hope Center also provides juice boxes, crackers, and chips for waiting students and co ee for their parents. e puzzle area has become very popular too.

Another valuable program o ered by the Hope Center is the Senior Moments Lunch Club, run by retired nurse Tammy Genagon. Held on the second Wednesday of each month, club participants enjoy hours of games, projects, music, dancing, singing, and a delightful lunch. Trained volunteers are paired with guests to assist them throughout the day. All guests of this Lunch Club are individuals a ected by Alzheimer’s or other formsofmemoryimpairment,sothismonthlyclubgivescaregiversa much-needed respite. e Grief Share program, led by Mari-Lee Ruddy, o ers a twohoursessionforthosecopingwiththelossofalovedone.Participants engage in workbook exercises, watch informative videos, and participate in group discussions, providing support and guidance during the grieving process. eHopeCenterwarmly welcomes volunteers who have a heart for service. Check out their new website, hopecentero eroy.org, which provides detailed information on how to volunteer, participate in communityoriented programs, or donate. Check back to see current wish list items, such as stamps, copy paper, co ee, sodas, water, juice boxes, co ee creamers, paper towels, and toilet paper.

Additionally, the Hope Center hosts the Hope Center Ladies’ Group, also known as Cra ers-Readers-Roamers. is monthly program invites all ladies to join and participate in various activities. Since its inception in January, the group has enjoyed events such as “Cra y Show and Tell,” a “Mug Rug” sewing class, Bible study, and a “Tea for Two” program.

To learn more about the Hope Center and their initiatives, please reach out to them at (585) 768-8184 or online. Check out the Hope Center’s Italian sausage booth at the Oatka Sausage Festival in July.