Tolson Center for Community Excellence - - The First Year and a Look Ahead to Phase 2

Welcome back to the New Year, Rotarians and guests!

Today we welcome fellow Elkhart Rotarian Breanna Allen, Executive Director of Tolson Center for Community Excellent, who will share an update on the Tolson Center's First Year celebrated on December 14, 2024 and a look ahead at Phase 2 of the development.

Since reopening in November 2023, the center has become a community hub. It has welcomed more than 4,000 members, with around 200 visitors each day. The Tolson Center has also hosted cultural events that attract people from all walks of life.

Dr. Breanna Allen, executive director of the Tolson Center, expressed excitement about the center’s first year. “We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of our first year,” Allen said. “The Tolson Center was built to empower and enrich our community, and it’s inspiring to see our mission come to life every day.”

The anniversary celebration featured and recognized key contributors, including local leaders, board members, and volunteers. “We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received,” Allen said. “We’re excited to honor those who helped us reach this milestone.”

This first meeting back of 2025 will also include a first semester update from the 2024 Elkhart Rotary Club Scholarship winner, Declan Millslagle, who was presented with the award last summer. Declan's on his break and able to join us for lunch and will spend a few minutes telling about his first semester at Purdue.