Auberle recreation to expand so many groups can play along

The recreation facilities on Auberle’s extensive campus in McKeesport will soon see $1 million in improvements, serving both the social-service agency and many community groups in the surrounding area. The center assists troubled, neglected and often abused children.

State Rep. Mark Gergely helped channel $500,000 in funding from Harrisburg for the project, and Auberle will provide the other $500,000 as well as maintenance funds.

The new rope and challenge courses will be used to help build trust between counselors and kids as part of their therapy, modeled after a similar practice and facilities at West Virginia University’s hospital.

The ballfields and gym, already in use for various adult programs, will also be improved, making them even more inviting and useful as recreation sites for local schools, businesses, community groups and medical facilities.

To the grounds will also be added new parking and fresh walking trails and plantings, which are part of Auberle’s environmental program, since its 18 acres are a National Wildlife Federation certified wildlife habitat.

“It will be a unique facility for the region,” says John Lydon, CEO of Auberle. “When this all fleshes out, it will have an economic development impact.”

Writer: Marty Levine

Source: John Lydon, Auberle

Image courtesy of Auberle