Valley Youth House celebrated the grand opening of the Carter Family Center at Camp Fowler April 16, providing a much-needed space for year-round recreation, learning and community gatherings.

The event welcomed legislators, donors and community partners to tour the new facility, enjoy a lunch reception and hear remarks about the center’s role in expanding programs at Camp Fowler.

Valley Youth House Board of Governors Chair Philip C. Jackson opened the program by recognizing those in attendance, and President and Executive Director Tom Harrington reflected on Camp Fowler’s mission to offer young people experiences that build resilience, confidence and a sense of belonging.

State Reps. Josh Siegel, D-22nd, and Milou Mackenzie, R-13th, highlighted the importance of spaces that encourage creativity, exploration and hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, math and the arts.

The vision for the Carter Family Center started with a lead gift from Tammy L. Carter, a native of Slatington, in memory of her late husband Nelson M. Carter, a successful tool and die engineer. She became interested in helping Valley Youth House provide recreational spaces for campers during times of inclement weather.

During the last three years of planning, the vision for the building evolved into a space for indoor recreation and educational programming to complement Camp Fowler’s enrichment programs. The Carter Family Center features a robust kitchen, state-of-the-art technology and recreational opportunities to provide campers a positive atmosphere of safety and connectivity.

Christina Schoemaker, senior vice president of advancement at Valley Youth House, recognized the many generous supporters whose contributions brought the Carter Family Center to life, including Jim Hoolehan, PE, president of Penntex Construction, Rick Koze of Kay Builders Inc., Patrick and Betsy Schamberger, Muschlitz Excavating, BEI Electrical, Patrick Schaible, The Salvaggio Family, M.A. Yeakel Sons Inc. and other key donors.

“Delivering our lifechanging programs and services at Valley Youth House is only possible through community partnerships and philanthropic support. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Camp Fowler, the Carter Family Center stands as a reminder to what is possible when a community comes together,” Schoemaker said. “Collectively through financial contributions and donations of goods and services, this $2.3 million dollar building will serve young people and families in our community for generations to come.”

Camp Fowler is part of the Valley Youth House program providing shelter for venerable, abused and homeless youth in the Lehigh Valley. The program began in 1973 with a single shelter and has grown into a network including more than 300 residential facilities.