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BY SANDRA COLLIN
UMCONNECTION CORRESPONDENT

As the sun broke through the clouds on the afternoon of Oct. 20, the 'Angels of Destiny' opened the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly constructed Union Street Community Center in Westminster.

More than four years ago, Union St. UMC, led by the now-retired Rev. Howard Hinson, had a vision that would transform a dilapidated building and lot across the street from the church into a secure haven, serving not only the low- and moderate-income families in the area but the whole community of Westminster.

He presented his vision to the city council, which immediately saw the value of a community center.

Speaking to the large crowd who came that afternoon to support the center?s opening, Mayor Tom Ferguson, a member of the board of directors of the Westminster Community of Shalom, remembers the day Hinson came to request backing from the city. Four years later 'the community center, no longer a vacant lot or an idea on a piece of paper, stands as a tribute to this vision,' he said.

The 7,000-square-foot center is the culmination of a shared dream that required creative partnerships, collaborative fund-raising efforts, and the hard work and prayers of many to bring it to fruition.

In the opening invocation, the Rev. Daryl A. Foster, current pastor of Union St. UMC, expressed what many felt - that 'God is in our midst in this moment in our community. Through his grace and mercy this vision has come to be.'

Deborah Sims, chairperson of the board of the Westminster Community of Shalom, reflected on the partnerships that worked so hard to reach its goal of 'creating an atmosphere of unity and peace by allowing outreach to the community.' She also said, tearfully, that it was the proudest moment of her life.

Creative partnerships were developed with various community organizations to bring about the necessary funding to build and initially operate the Community Center. The Community Foundation of Carroll County, led by Executive Director Audrey Cimino, assisted in obtaining grants including a $100,000 grant from the Harry and Jeanette Weinburg Foundation.

Inspired by Union Street UMC?s financial commitment and action in acquiring the land and funding, many local churches, banks, colleges, organizations, businesses and individuals provided their financial and in-kind support to make the project the reality it is today.

Hinson, as keynote speaker, thanked the congregation as well as those who took part in the Shalom Zone training.

The Union Street Community Center is 'something of beauty we can all be proud of,' said Hinson, who called upon the church to now create 'an action plan of practical reality, faith, determination and love.'

The Community Center will be the new home of the Boys and Girls Club, presently meeting at Union St. UMC.

Phyllis Hammond, its unit director, was very pleased with the center, as the group had grown so much they needed a larger space to meet and serve the community?s children. The center will provide a safe place for children to go after school, where they can do their homework, participate in activities, improve computer skills and continue the successful programs offered by the Boys and Girls Club.

The Union Street Community Center also plans to offer programs for adults and senior citizens, including parenting classes and a homebuyers club, as well as offering many volunteer opportunities.

The center is still looking for additional funds to cover operating costs. Those interested in making a tax-deductible donation, can contact: Union Street UMC, (410) 876-4484 or The Community Foundation of Carroll County at (410) 876-5505.