Letter from the Executive Director

WHO WE ARE, WHAT WE DO

The McLean Community Center (MCC) was built and is funded by residents of Greater McLean for their use through a real estate tax surcharge, the result of a 1970 bond referendum (Small District 1A-Dranesville). Center facilities include the 383-seat Alden Theatre, the McLean Project for the Arts galleries, the Susan B. DuVal Art Studio, meeting and conference rooms, a rehearsal studio, a multipurpose classroom and catering kitchen. Local open clubs and organizations use the Center for their monthly meetings with a nominal charge. Center facilities may be rented for private functions such as business conferences, receptions, parties and recitals. District residents and businesses pay reduced fees. Registrations for McLean Youth Athletics and McLean Little League activities are regularly held at the Center, and information on their activities is always available. The Center also operates the award-winning Old Firehouse Center, located at 1440 Chain Bridge Rd. in downtown McLean.

I Chose to Accept the Mission; So Glad I Did

As I retire and prepare to leave MCC, I am reminded of MCC’s mission and purpose, and I am proud to have had the privilege of serving our residents for the last 11 years. During that time, I have worked to maintain the high standards our mission and vision have set in meeting our public's needs.

To Provide a Sense of Community by Undertaking Programs

As programmers, we create opportunities with whatever space or equipment we are given. We listen and gather information about our community in order to address the needs of the people we serve. This is forever changing, which challenges us to be continually creating new programs and opportunities for recreation and to educate our residents. During my tenure, our programmers have o ered a rich variety of programs for every age group.

Assisting Community Organizations

MCC currently services 24 local nonprofit organizations that hold their regular meetings here. We also provide room set-ups in multiple rooms at the community center to support their community e orts and projects. We allocate these opportunities equally and fairly to all.

Furnishing Facilities for Civic, Cultural, Educational, Recreational and Social Activities

Calling this a “community center” is somewhat misleading. We often have people come here with the expectation of finding a gym, pool or fitness center, which are mostly found in community recreation centers. This facility aligns more closely to that of a civic or cultural center, where people come for a purpose to meet, to learn in class o erings, to experience cultural stimulation and to gather in organized family fun activities. I have many beautiful memories of happy families who have participated in our programs, of dedicated board members who have donated their time and talents to help us reach success and of a hard-working sta who have committed themselves to enhancing the community, one program at a time. It has been a wonderful ride. My hope is that MCC will continue to thrive and reach new levels of accomplishment. Thank you for all the love and support you have given me. I could not have done it without you.

George Sachs Executive Director McLean Community Center