A new leader will guide Western Avenue Community Center into its 100th year. In a letter to donors, new executive director Michell Cervantes said she’s eager to build on the Bloomington nonprofit’s foundation and “listen and learn” from the community.
Cevantes said she aims to expand services, deepen community partnerships and grow outreach. The center currently hosts recreational programs for youth and seniors, low-cost interpretation and translation in French and Spanish, and adult education including ESL and GED classes, among other services. WACC’s food program partners with the Tinervin Family Foundation to distribute free food boxes, hygiene products and produce. And the center hosts Carle’s Mobile Health Clinic twice a month.
Cervantes previously directed Mid Central Community Action’s Countering Domestic Violence [CDV] program. Program manager Rachel Sizemore has been promoted to director. In a message to WGLT, Sizemore said she was lucky to have worked with Cervantes since joining the organization.
"She taught me everything I know for CDV," Sizemore said.
