[LISTEN] Community Matters – Amy Rohler Discusses Community Helping Hands Block Party

Originally airing Thursday, Aug. 4, 2016.

Rev. Amy Rohler, executive director of the faith-based organization Community Helping Hands in Jamestown, talks with WRFA’s Jason Sample about the organization and the services it provides, and also offers details for the upcoming Family Fun Block Party, happening Friday, Aug. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Community Helping Hands – located in the Gateway Center on Water St. in Jamestown, NY.

The Aug. 12 event will serve as a 15th Anniversary celebration for the organization and is being co-sponsored by the Chautauqua Center Family Fun Days.

There will be an outdoor BBQ, bounce houses for kids, snow cones by Conduit Ministries, tours of the building, live music by local youth worship bands local community organization vendors and a backpack/school supplies giveaways. Local leaders, such as Mayor Sam Teresi, will be in attendance, as well as current and former board members, volunteers and staff. Stores are open all day.

There will also be a brief program at 2 p.m. in the Cafe on the second floor, to acknowledge and thank all who have made the last 15 years possible.

Community Helping Hands helps meet emergency needs for clothing, household items and furniture through its thrift store, which is open to the public. In 2015, the organization gave away over $96,000 worth of gently used goods, and works with over 20 agencies, organizations and churches who refer people in need. CHH does not rely on government funding for support and uses its small thrift store to help those on public assistance gain valuable work experience and skill building to make them more employable. The non-profit also manages the Gateway Center—a formerly abandoned factory building that has been repurposed as a community center that houses organizations who help those in need—as well as operating the Family and Youth Center on the second floor (which includes Laser Tag, an indoor skate/bmx park, cafe and—most recently—batting cages).

It’s continuing mission to give “a hand up” has sustained it over the last 15 years and continues to be the guiding force in its vision for the future.

In celebration of their 15^th year, Community Helping Hands is looking for fifty people to donate $15 per week to be “part of the local solution” and expand their capacity to help those in need.

For more information about Community Helping Hands, the anniversary celebration or becoming a 50@15 donor, please visit chhny.org or call (716) 487-1488.