New Marion center to coordinate volunteer community service set to open

Marion Ministry and Outreach Center

The Marion Ministry and Outreach Center will be unveiled September 13 with the mission of facilitating community service opportunities between non-profit agencies and volunteers.

Located at 640 14th Street, in the middle of Uptown Marion’s redevelopment area, the ministry hopes to find local clients for non-profits while matching opportunities to eager volunteers.

“We hope this center will provide opportunities for Marion residents to rebuild a spirit of community that has diminished in recent times, especially during COVID-19,” said Rich Balvanz, Marion Ministry and Outreach director.

The headquarters was developed by members of King of Kings Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids.

According to a release, in addition to maintaining a database of community service opportunities and promoting openings, the center will hopefully bring new services to Marion that do not currently exist today.

Non-profit groups such as the Marion Cares after-school program, His Hands free medical clinic, and Celebrate Recovery (a Christian-based addiction recovery program) will be provided operating space in the center as well.