The Progress Club met on Oct. 5, at the home of Karen Becker. Present were 14 members and one guest, Vicky Dayton. Co-hostesses were Pat Klusener and Janet Engleman. President Sharon Mauler called the meeting to order.
Vice-president Karen Becker introduced the guest speaker, Vicky Dayton, who presented a program on “Housing Opportunities, Inc.” Housing Opportunities, Inc. is the largest general contractor in Great Bend, and is dedicated to providing income based affordable quality housing. A total of fifty-four homes were added to Great Bend between 2000 and 2006. In addition to Barton County, HOI also serves Rice and Pawnee Counties and continues to expand. The organization started with only $3,600 and today the budget has grown to over 29 million. Prospective homeowners who qualify can apply for a grant of $25,000 to help with a down payment on an HOI home. The property is not taxed at the standard rate. There is a great need for employment based housing in this area.
Treasurer Darlene Mathers reminded everyone that $10 dues are now due and payable.
The next meeting will be held on Nov. 2, at Kathy Schugart’s home, with Darlene Mathers and Ruth Lowry as co-hostesses. Mary Ann Boyle will present the program, “Finding Missing Persons.”