BARRETT TOWNSHIP -- If you're interested in your health and safety, a new community center in the Poconos may have the answer.
The "Friendly Community Center" opened its doors on Wednesday.
It's designed with adults of all ages in mind.
Every Tuesday, Beverly Hartje of Paradise Valley can be seen walking around different parts of the Poconos.
Hartje is the organizer of a "Walking group" that meets every week to walk two miles to stay fit.
It was an idea she had a few years ago because the area didn't have a community center.
"We started a community center without walls, and we planned a number of activities," said Hartje.
Each activity was located in different locations until she, along with dozens of other volunteers decided it was time to pull together to find a community center.
"We wanted a building with some character, some vintage, a building that has served the community for a century. We wanted it to serve for another century," said Hartje.
With the help of a grant and fundraising dollars, the old Barrett Township library on Route 191 in Mountainhome just became the friendly community center, something Hartje has been waiting for.
"We could have someone do jigsaw puzzles. We could play Wii games without bumping into each other. We'll have more activities. It will be a more dynamic center," explained Hartje.
The Friendly Community Center will host all sorts of activities,both inside the building, and also outside the building, like in the fitness park which will be built sometime next year. Keep in mind, all the activities provided will be for all ages, not just senior citizens.
Nancy Hooke of Barrett Township is one of the younger adults who will benefit from the center as well.
She is looking for help with nutrition and fitness.
"I can take a yoga class," said Hooke.
The Friendly Community Center is now open in Mountainhome to help adults of all ages.