The Kenbridge Recreational Center is open for business. Joyce White Freeman, manager of the recreational center, says the center will be open every Saturday morning from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. According to Freeman the center is opening on Saturdays to accommodate the farmers market clients and to provide a place for the community to come together. “The recreation center is an important part of the community and I want to provide facilities for the community when needed and also provide a gathering place for those who want to exercise or socialize,” Freeman said.

Freeman is working on revitalizing the center and hopes to bring alive a building with lots of history. “My vision is to see this building come alive with activities in the future,” Freeman stated. She went on to share she has dreams of having basketball tournaments, dance classes, indoor yard sales, health and fitness fairs and after school activities for children. The first basketball tournament is scheduled for July 4. “I want to see the gym open every day with some kind of activity,” said Freeman.

Freeman has six children and has lived in Kenbridge most of her life. “I love kids and I love my community,” continued Freeman.

The Kenbridge Recreational Center was a school gym in the 1950s. Evidence of its earliest use is found in the lockers still in place used by children of that generation. The building is a part of the history of Kenbridge. All that is needed now is a little love and help from the community. Freeman is looking for help in restoring the building to a better condition. She shared that painting, power washing, electrical work, carpentry and general pro bono work would be greatly appreciated. Of course, donations are always appreciated. Any questions can be sent to Kenbridgerecreationalcenter@gmail.com. Freeman can be reached at (434) 294-8116.