Discover Firstenburg Community Center
When you’re seeking a vibrant community and engaging activities in East Vancouver, the Firstenburg Community Center stands out as a popular choice. In 2018, Vancouver local Dani Story was looking to step away from her daily routine and began her journey with the center. From being a visitor to transitioning into a customer service role, her story underscores the welcoming environment of this community hub.
Firstenburg Community Center: A Brief Overview
The Firstenburg Community Center greets around 1,000 visitors each weekday. This inclusive center draws people from all walks of life, providing a friendly and open community for all ages, abilities, and demographics. There’s something for everyone, making it a fantastic place to break the monotony of daily life.
Join the 20th Anniversary Celebration
If you’re interested in experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the Firstenburg Community Center, their 20th anniversary celebration is a great opportunity. The celebration is happening at 700 N.E. 136th Ave., Vancouver, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on February 27. Check out the full schedule of events here. No membership is required, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the center.
The Journey of Firstenburg Community Center
Established 20 years ago, the Firstenburg Community Center was built in 2006 at a cost of $21.1 million. The funding was a combination of real estate excise taxes, a state economic development grant, and a generous contribution from the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington on behalf of Ed and Mary Firstenburg.
Explore the Facilities
Firstenburg Community Center boasts a range of facilities, such as a fitness center, aerobic dance studio, aquatic center, event space, climbing and bouldering walls, and an indoor track. It shares its campus with the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District and offers ample parking space. The natural light from the spacious windows and skylights illuminates the track, pool, and fitness studios, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
Inspiring Other Community Centers
The center has been a source of inspiration for other community center proposals. Angela Brosius, the center’s director, mentions that officials from cities in Oregon, Washington, and other states often reach out to understand the operations of Firstenburg. For instance, when planning a new community center in 2014, officials in Hillsboro, Ore., looked to Firstenburg as a model.
Building a Community
Among the regular visitors at Firstenburg Community Center, many stay for the community rather than just the facilities or fitness classes. The center particularly attracts retirees and older people, but they are also focusing on engaging more families with children by organizing family events and classes.
Revamping Membership Options for Better Access
The city of Vancouver recently streamlined its community center membership options. The new all-access pass offers numerous fitness classes at both the Firstenburg and Marshall-Luepke Community Centers. A variety of membership plans are available to cater to different age groups and family sizes.
More than Just a Community Center
Jana Wilson, Firstenburg’s senior recreation specialist, notes that many members spend several hours at the center, engaging in a variety of activities. The Firstenburg Community Center is more than just a building; it’s a place to connect, create friendships, and be part of a vibrant community.
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