Yesterday I had the pleasure of dropping in at the new Remote Learning Center offered by Restoration Church Gardner. It's always exciting to see businesses or organizations (or in this case a church) doing something to serve the community. After my brief conversation with Pastor Dave Holland, it just seemed fitting to share what his church and their volunteers decided to do in this realm.

Restoration Church had been looking for an opportunity to serve the community initially through some type of shared work space. Instead, they pivoted (the word of 2020) and are now offering something truly needed, as evidenced by the 25+ students who have already been using the space. The Remote Learning Center is located at the Locale Event Space in downtown Gardner, which is perfect for a number of reasons. First, it's a high-traffic spot that is certain to draw eyes. It's a quick walk to Groundhouse Coffee, so kids can grab a drink or bite to eat during the day. It's also just around the block from the library, another important resource, though maybe at times underutilized by high school age students. 

Holland and his team have so far outfitted the space simply, with just the key supplies being offered (at no cost mind you). There's multiple internet services, a printer, general school supplies and ample space to social distance. At least two volunteers will be on hand at all times, not so much to provide academic support (though maybe that will happen naturally), but to provide a safe, organized space for anyone to work out of. He also mentioned that in time, as along as things go well and according to plans, they might add other services/opportunities such as mentoring, food, special events and more. The more usage it gets, the more likely they'll find additional ways to serve high school youth in the community.

So basically a local church, a relatively new one at that, has partnered with a local business to provide services to high school students, an oft-forgotten group. This has win-win-win written all over it and I couldn't have been more excited to learn about it. My encouragement to you is to reach out to Pastor Dave and his team, offer your support or just stop by and check out the space. Then go out and tell your friends who have high school age kids so that it gets the proper usage it deserves.