It has been ten years since the idea for a Lincoln Community Center was launched. Over this decade, many committees have met, large community meetings have discussed ideas and town meetings were presented with potential plans. Folks at the COA and the Lincoln Select Board have patiently promoted this idea. When it became evident that the Lincoln Schools needed to be rebuilt, the Community Center was put on hold.
As a single woman, I took a deep breath and decided to support the school's efforts, even if it meant delaying the community center. Growing up I was taught the importance of paying it forward - to always support the younger generation that follows. With the School project my taxes went up along with other homeowners in town and though I have never had kids I was more than willing to support the schools. The schools are completed and finally, it is time to make the dream of a Lincoln Community Center come through. I have listened to and read about the concerns and questions of folks in town. Some of them are as follows… *Why do we need a new building? * One only has to enter Bemis Hall to recognize how it no longer serves the needs of a growing and aging population. There aren’t enough private spaces to provide adequate room for counseling, or socializing. The air quality in the basement is poor therefore making large meetings unhealthy. Parking is very limited and it is perilous to cross or back out onto Bedford Road. *What does the COA and Human Services Do? Why is it important?* The role of the COA has always been a great boon to the town. But before I retired I had no idea what it did. Next time the Newsletter shows up in your mailbox take a moment to read it before you toss it into the recycling bin I think you will be surprised by the plethora of activities that occur. Classes, groups, lectures, plays, films, and trips provide education and entertainment. Outreach across the community is extended to those in need. Among these are included individual therapy, groups which problem- solve, fuel assistance, housing needs, help with water bills and transportation and the list is always growing. *Why do I need a Council On Aging? I’m not old yet? * The name Council on Aging can be a real turn-off. A vision of old people nodding off in wheelchairs comes to mind. But our COA and H.S. is hardly that. The attendees, volunteers and staff that work at Bemis are energetic and enthusiastic participants. Merging the Rec. Department with the COA&H.S. into a Community Center will help to remove old negative connotations and stereotypes! That is why we need a Community Center that spans all ages. With careful planning of space and programs, a Community Center can meet many needs. I would love to see new intergenerational programming evolve. Older adults could perhaps mentor Middle Schoolers Perhaps grand friends could forge relationships with little kids, Tutoring and/or game nights, could happen and Yoga Classes with all ages would help to build relationships across the community. Building on the school grounds will make it easier for these connections to develop! *How can we afford a new building? * There are many wealthy folks in town who could perhaps afford to help fund it. Creative thinkers can gather and find ways to lower taxes through private donations. *Let’s not throw out the baby with the bath water.* In closing, much work and planning have been devoted to this worthy vision! We aren’t starting from scratch As a town, we are creative and thoughtful. Let’s figure out a way to make the Community Center happen. I have visited several community centers in the surrounding areas and many are exciting vibrant places while some are small and drab. We need a Community Center which reflects the vibrant and creative nature of our town.- a place that is welcoming to all - a place where wonderful creativity happens.
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