Work has been progressing at a feverish pace, as Elim Pentecostal Tabernacle gets ready to make its complete move to its new home at the former Central School in downtown Drumheller.
The local church, looking to grow, was able to secure the new facility in a deal with Golden Hills School Division last June. Since then, they have been working hard to get the facility ready. The main push has been to have the day care open.
The church has dedicated 7,500 square feet to the Little Explorers Child Care and Discovery Centre, and has renovated the second floor north wing to accommodate the facility. This includes new flooring, paint and plumbing in each classroom. They expect to have the day care open by September 12.
Lead Pastor Dan Dannhauer has taken a hiatus from the pulpit to act as general contractor for the project. They have brought in some contractors along the way, and have also relied on inmate labour and volunteers to get the facility whipped into shape.
The centre of the building will be used for a youth centre where they will run programs. The facility will also house all of the church offices.
On Sunday, the gymnasium will be used as its sanctuary for mass, and on Wednesday night the church holds its family nights. For these activities, they will have rubberized flooring to protect the gym.
The gym will also be available on most days for rental to community groups. Dannhauer says they already have interest from groups including a floor hockey league and even Zumba.
Part of the facility will be available to community groups for use as offices or studio space. Dannhauer said the Badlands EMS is planning to use the space, as is the Tricia Hatch Dance Studio.