Shira Zimmerman, director of advocates for The Factory Ministries, describes the upcoming "Factory Homecoming: Tastes and Tours at the Together Community Center" as a sort of hybrid event. "It has more of a program than an open house, but less than a banquet," she explained.
"(Guests will be) free to come and go," said Kate Lab, who works in development for The Factory, of the drop-in nature of the homecoming.
The first Factory Homecoming will be held on Thursday, May 20, at the Together Community Center, 3293 Lincoln Highway East, Paradise, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Those wishing to attend the free event are asked to register for a time slot. There will be opportunities to donate to The Factory Ministries throughout the evening.
Zimmerman explained that guests will begin with a tour of The Factory, with reception being the first stop. "(A Factory representative) will explain why it's so important to have that face at the front door," said Zimmerman, who added that attendees will also visit adult social services, the Brave Kids Center, The Factory Food Pantry, and the other programs offered by the ministry. Because staff members will represent their programs, those taking the tour will be able to learn about the programs from knowledgeable tour guides. Each tour will end in the gym, where appetizers will be served.
Executive director Adam Nagle will speak for about 15 minutes to gatherings in the gym at both 7 and 8 p.m. Following that, teenagers and elementary school students will perform. The program in the gym will last up to 30 minutes.
Lab noted that the homecoming is designed for those who remember the building from earlier days when it served as a school. "It will showcase how this historical building is being used to meet community needs," she said. "A lot of people in this area went to grade school or high school here and have memories (of the building)."
To keep the event safe for visitors and staff, time slots will be limited to 40 registrants. Lab noted, however, that there are other reasons for keeping groups of visitors small. "We want quality tours of about 10 to 15 (people)," she explained.
Readers who wish to attend are asked to register by Thursday, May 6, at https://thefactoryministries.com or by calling 717-687-9594.
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