About the BARC
The Business, Arts & Recreation Center (BARC) Inc. was established in October 2001. In 2002 BARC, Inc. became a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization. BARC, Inc. owns and operates the building that was formerly the Windom High School and later Area Central School. The original building was built in 1931, with subsequent additions being added in 1953, 1955, 1957, 1962 and 1971. BARC, Inc. was established as a result of the success of the Save Area Central (SAC) committee organization that began in an effort to keep the former school from the threat of demolition by the school district. Through their fundraising efforts, enough money was raised to purchase the building from the school district and make some much needed repairs and renovations to the building, making it once again operable and open to the public. With that success, BARC, Inc. was formed. BARC has renovated most sections of the building, utilizing Capital Campaigns of $400,000.00 and $80,000.00. Naming rights campaigns are currently underway for the gymnasium and rec. room (Jack Kelly Recreation Center) ($250,000 goal) and the Auditorium (Maria Schneider Performing Arts Auditorium) ($100,000 goal).
The Past
BARC, Inc. is currently run by a 15 member board of directors as well as an Administrator/Facilities Manager, Administrative Assistant, Office Worker, Book Keeper, 2 Maintenance/Custodial staff and a Licensed Boiler Operator.
BARC is open 7 days a week for community activities and events. The Business, Arts & Recreation Center currently houses about 25 tenants and has spaces available for concerts, theatrical performances and presentations (650 seat auditorium) as well as a regulation size gymnasium for wedding receptions, banquets, meetings, and sports activities. BARC maintains a Recreation Room, including a secondary stage with a variety of gaming tables suitable for youth, family and adult activities. Various rooms are also made available for organizational meetings, parties, reunions and classes.