District Employees Lend Helping Hands to Community Center

Inspired by the courage and tenacity of a retired co-worker, members of the West Chester Area School District Facilities and Operations staff donated their time and expertise to resurface the gym floor, complete maintenance projects, and beautify the grounds at the West Chester Community Center.

Former employee Mike Fowlkes, who took early retirement due to health issues, has coordinated this effort. Living in Coatesville but spending most of his free time coaching basketball and mentoring children at the Community Center, he and his wife Evelyn made the decision to move to West Chester where they could be closer to family, friends, and the Center.

Frustrated by the lack of funds available for much needed maintenance and repairs at the Center, Fowlkes and his wife met with former co-workers to ask for their assistance. Highly respected, Fowlkes had no trouble convincing members of the Facilities and Operations department to volunteer their time to revitalize the facility. Employees who donated their time included Ken Ward, Damion Ralph, Laura Swisher, Walt Loper, Steve Moore, Tony Kelly, Bill Feaster, Bruce Vesey, Woody Hilton, Terence Reed, Jim Cornelius, Ernie Garnet, Don Greene, and Gary Hake. The cost of repairs was offset by the donations of products from both Paul Carberry of the Hillyard Company, and Mark Meyers of the Philip Rosenau Company.

The courage and heart of one man has motivated numerous persons to come together to improve a facility that provides encouragement to countless community members. Despite personal tragedy and limitations, Fowlkes is a beacon to others in his pursuit to provide a safe place for young people through mentoring and coaching.

 

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