The Glacier Discovery Square Community Center, the First Best Place Task Force and the community of Columbia Falls got a major vote of support today from Park Side Federal Credit Union.
Jeremy Presta, CEO of Park Side presented a check to the First Best Place for $10,000.00 to support the development of Discovery Square.
“We are thrilled to accept this generous investment from Park Side.” said Barry Conger of the First Best Place. “Not only does this make an immediate difference to our efforts, but their leadership helps set an example for the rest of the community. A big thanks to Park Side for their commitment to our community.”
Park Side has long supported Flathead County Library System programming, and this gift continues that tradition. A modern Columbia Falls Branch of the library system will be the anchor for Discovery Square.
“Park Side’s ongoing dedication to early childhood development programs at the Library has been outstanding. They are a phenomenal partner, who combines insight, financial investment, and a caring team of volunteers,” said Stewart Harvey, Director of the Flathead County Library Foundation, who was also on hand to accept the Park Side gift.
The First Best Place continues to raise funds to redevelop the former First Citizen’s Bank building on Nucleus as a multi-purpose community center, with a focus on education, providing a place for numerous education and cultural activities. The new library space will be a major information portal for the community, embracing significant technology in a comfortable setting. The Community Center portion of the facility has already begun hosting classes, seminars, films, lectures, as well as offering a gathering place for local organizations.
Conger estimates that the library fundraising will continue through mid-2010. “We continue to gain support from the leaders of our community. This project will require our entire community to come together to make it happen. Everyone – adults, children, businesses, retirees, young professionals – this project will benefit them, and this project will need their support. Many have already recognized the benefits, and more are joining every day.”
The First Best Place is a grassroots organization working to develop quality of life amenities for the community. They can be contacted at [email protected], or on the web at http://www.firstbestplace.org.