EDITORIAL: Manor, Boys & Girls Club need community’s continued support

Posted 5/17/16

Rocky Mountain Manor leaders are looking at renovating the 55-year-old building that dozens of local senior citizens call home.

The manor’s elevator has become unsafe and must be refurbished. Leaders also plan to add a second elevator to not …

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EDITORIAL: Manor, Boys & Girls Club need community’s continued support

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The Rocky Mountain Manor and local Boys & Girls Club have helped hundreds of Powell residents over the decades — and now it’s up to the community to help these nonprofit organizations.

Rocky Mountain Manor leaders are looking at renovating the 55-year-old building that dozens of local senior citizens call home.

The manor’s elevator has become unsafe and must be refurbished. Leaders also plan to add a second elevator to not only serve as a backup, but also provide more access to the upper floors and the basement.

The manor also is looking at replacing its generator and adding more parking for its residents. All told, the projects will cost an estimated $627,500.

While the manor is seeking grants and has matching funds available, community contributions are key in making the renovations a reality. Donations can be mailed to the manor at 140 N. Cheyenne St., Powell WY, 82435.

We’re reminded of the manor’s important role in our community.

Open to residents 62 and older, as well as those with disabilities, the manor provides affordable housing and a close-knit community.

Most of the manor’s residents are between 81-100 years old. Many qualify for rental assistance, so their rent can’t exceed one-third of their income. Rent for remaining residents is based on a fixed rate.

On average, rates have gone up about 1 percent a year, but of course, utility costs have increased more than that over the years.

For senior citizens on fixed incomes, it’s important for rent to remain reasonable at the manor.

Across town, another nonprofit also is trying to keep rates reasonable while serving many younger members of the community.

As in past years, the Boys & Girls Club of Park County is facing financial difficulties. If the nonprofit doesn’t raise $48,000 by the fall, the center could close.

“Donations have just gone down due to the economy,” said Tina Bernard, chief professional officer for the local club. “Some of the longtime people who started with the club in 1998 have passed away, and the younger generation hasn’t stepped up to what the older generation did.”

The Boys & Girls Club serves hundreds of kids each year, providing a safe place for youth ages 6-18 during the summers as well as after-school.

At only $30 per month, the club is an affordable option for local families. If money is an issue, the Boys & Girls Club has scholarships available and says it will not turn kids away.

Without the Boys & Girls Club, some parents would be forced to leave children at home unsupervised when school is out. Not only is the local center a safe place for kids, it also provides help with homework as well as focusing on health, life skills and preventing alcohol and drug use. The club isn’t a daycare, as Bernard said.

Every dollar counts in fundraising for the club. As Bernard pointed out, if 2,500 residents donate just $20, the Boys & Girls Club could raise $50,000 and remain open.

Unfortunately, the manor and Boys & Girls Club aren’t the only ones needing help right now. Tough financial times are a reality for other nonprofits and businesses in our community, as well as families and individuals who live here.

As households and businesses tighten their belts, we realize it’s difficult to find money to donate. But if you’re able to, consider giving to these local nonprofits who serve some of Powell’s youngest and oldest residents.

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