Dayton / Ohio / United States
Wesley Community Center with the mission of Helping Others through God Centered Principles serves the West Dayton community and the Miami Valley. The Center has earned the reputation as a reliable, committed, faith-based organization that responds to families and individuals experiencing personal crisis. Dr. Robert C. Walker has faithfully served as Executive Director since 1973. This non-profit, tax-exempt charitable organization, with 30 full and part-time employees, is governed by a Board of Trustees. It is a Better Business Bureau accredited charity and a partner agency of United Way of the Greater Dayton Area. Established in 1966 by the Methodist Mission Society, the Center moved to its current location in 1976. Wesley Park, which adjoins the Center, was a gift of the IAMS pet food and Mr. Clay Mathile. The Center collaborates with several community agencies including: United Way of the Greater Dayton Area, Dayton Urban League, Dayton Public Schools, Dayton Metropolitan Housing Authority, Five Rivers MetroParks, Community Action Partnership, Dakota Center, Dayton Urban Ministry Center, Helping Hands Outreach Center, Holt Street Miracle Center, First Dayton Little League, Dixon Wellness Center, and Dayton s Southwest Priority Board. Hundreds of volunteers offer their time and expertise to make possible caring service. The Center performs social services on contract with the Area Agency on Aging, Montgomery County ( Department of Job and Family Services, Family and Children First Council, and the Human Service Levy Council ), United Way, and The Dayton Urban League. Children and Youth Programs An after School Program for 40 youngsters, Summer Day Camp for 65 children, Academic Success classes, Youth Leadership Development Institute and Camp Harambee for 50 adolescent youth, Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops. We provide tutors to Dayton Public Schools. We also do outreach with children in Dayton Metropolitan Housing units. Human Assistance Assessment of family needs, providing information and referrals, training opportunities and much needed support and encouragement. The Food Pantry serves 300 families per month and the Clothing Boutique is used by many families. Numerous Self-Sufficiency Training opportunities 50 women in the People Taking Charge Program, 75 men in the Male Awareness Program, 150 families engaged in programs to strengthen the family unit, 150 clients engaged in Computer Training and Job Development classes. Senior Services 40 senior citizens participate in weekday activities and lunch meals. A fleet of 9 vans provides transportation throughout Montgomery County to 20 nutrition sites, for medical appointments, and personal assistance for frail elderly seniors. Senior outings are arranged to community events, social activities, and for shopping. Community Events and Activities The annual Juneteenth celebration during June to commemorate the emancipation from slavery, Harvest Party for children and families in October, and Christmas celebrations. Community Initiative for Reduction of Gun Violence In partnership with the City of Dayton, Montgomery County, and The Dayton Urban League, helping individuals to find a better way to live and become productive citizens.
