This article first appeared in the Moose Jaw Times-Herald October 13, 2010.

By Rebecca Lawrence
Moose Jaw Times-Herald

A

lot is happening at Joe’s Place.

There are plumbers, electricians and construction workers all pulling together to create a new kitchen, repair the roof and fit roof-top heating/cooling units.

Earlier this year, Joe’s Place on Main Street won $50,000 from the Aviva Community Fund contest.

Now that money is being put to use and renovations have started at the centre, which looks after the city’s youth.

Joe’s Place founder Joe Dueck said it’s a very busy time.

“Wal-Berg did all the framing for the kitchen. Terry Parks and his crew are doing the electrical. C&E Mechanical is doing all the water, gas and ventilation, including the roof top heating/cooling units — and these are all local companies.

“Flynn Roofing from Regina is going to do the roof top repairs and the sealing of the units.

“The work started about three weeks ago and each phase of the construction is dependent on the prior trade finishing their specific work. Drywalling is the next step and they have to wait until all the electrical and plumbing is done before they can come in,” he said.

Dueck said he hopes all the renovations, including the commercial kitchen with cafe, will be finished by Nov. 15.

“We are planning a grand opening for Dec. 2, but it’s all dependent on the weather.

“We are planning to have a live band, we hope to serve food from the kitchen and invite local dignitaries,” he said.

Dueck said it was “phenomenal” to be able to do the work.

“We will have hot and cold running water, a place to do dishes and just have proper lighting to prepare and serve food and adequate counter space.”

Joe’s Place currently serves around 200 youths.

Drop-in nights are on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., a supper club takes place on Tuesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. and a work bee to teach job skills takes place on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

“On our weekend nights, we hope to serve fun food to bring in even more youth and give alternatives to other negative weekend options.

“On Tuesdays, it will very much help supper club. It’s healthy meals for a large group of people. At the moment, all the food has to be brought in.

“We also hope to do fundraiser lunches and to do one before the end of the year.

“We will sell tickets with a meal and information session on what Joe’s Place is about. It will make money by selling food and increase public awareness and spin-off donations and support for the future,” Dueck said.

Rebecca Lawrence can be reached at 691-1258.