Front Row: Sue, Mark, Jay, Cathy, Dawn
Back Row: Josh, Wade, Jared, Brian, Butch

HISTORY

In 2019, First Baptist Church of Waynesburg (“FBC”) had the opportunity to purchase a former grocery store adjacent to the church property. The church conceived of a vision to provide the community with a building that could be used for outreach to improve the lives of our people.
It began fundraising for the capital expenses associated with remodeling the building to meet the needs and fulfill the vision in June of 2021. Through the efforts of the community as well as FBC, we are well on the WAY to meeting the Capital Goal.

History

2019
Jan

2019

When the grocery store at the corner of Richhill and Main Street in Waynesburg went up for sale, First Baptist Church of Waynesburg (FBC) quickly established a committee to determine the best use of the property and whether the building should be purchased. The committee developed the concept of a the building housing a community center. From the beginning, FBC desired to put its mission of ” Loving Christ – Serving Others” into action. FBC wanted to open the doors outside the walls of the church building and outside of the church. In living its mission, it recognized the vision required an independent entity so that there could be true collaboration with all churches community-wide input and involvement; * FBC acquired the property as a gift to the community. Peninsula Architects, an firm with community center experience was hired to develop plans and projected costs for the 15,424 square foot building.

Aug

Purchased Building

2020
Jan

2020

Due to the pandemic, the project was put on hold but prayers for the project and the vision continued.

2021
Jan

2021

In the spring of 2021, fund raising for renovation costs of $2.4 million began and an organizing board was formed. The first programs were started.

Jun

“The Way” Community Center of Greene County is Formed

The Way Community Center of Greene County, an independent nonprofit, is formed. Fundraising campaign kicks off.

2022
Jan

2022

The Way received its tax-exempt determination letter from the IRS as a 501(c)(3) educational organization. An independent faith-based board from multiple area churches was formed and began operating under Christian principles and values. Volunteers began the interior demolition saving costs in excess of $150,000. Area churches became involved, a number of partnerships were formed and further community input was sought.

2023
Jan

2023

The initial fundraising goal of $2.4 million was met but the incremental cost of the project, without scope changes, doubled. It was determined to start the renovation in two phases and to continue the fundraising.

Apr

Renovation Begins

Renovation Begins

The keys to the facility were officially turned over to Stonemile Group, LLC and the renovation begins.

PRINCIPLES