MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – An area near Myrtle Beach desperate for a new community center now has one, thanks to Horry County’s Community Development Office.
The Racepath Community Center is home to summer camp and after-school programs for kids. However, the programs used to be run out of an old trailer with only two rooms.
“The other building was so small,” said President of Phoenix Renaissance, Rev. William Gause. “Having this building is a dream come true.”
The new building is about 3,000 square feet with several different rooms, office space and a kitchen. The county gave the building to Phoenix Renaissance for $5. Gause wants to expand to add classes for adults to focus on issues in the community like drug and substance abuse.
“We know that Racepath has a very bad reputation,” said Gause. “I believe that if we get these programs thought up it’ll be a big turnaround.”
He’s also considering parenting classes and job-preparation classes.
“Get them off the street get them involved in something more positive than drugs and crime and partying and all of that stuff,” added Gause.
Racepath has been a focus for the county’s Community Development Office for several years.
“We feel when we put our resources into that community we’re going to see a benefit and people will be able to see an improvement,” said Director of Community Development, Courtney Kain.
Gause is excited to have the new building but knows a larger space means larger bills. He’s asking for donations and is planning several fundraisers.