"It's been here a very long time and it has served many purposes," said Lisa Kraljevich, who was recently named the executive director of the Birdsboro Community Memorial Center, when describing the historic building that was constructed more than 250 years ago. "There is a lot of space, and we are looking to add a lot of new programs."

According to http://www.bcmcbirdsboro.com, the Birdsboro Community Memorial Center once served as the home of ironmaster William Bird, who completed the mansion in 1751. Later, in 1796, it was home to Matthew Brooke and his wife, Elizabeth, who purchased the Birdsboro Iron Works Company from the Bird family.

In the early part of the 20th century, a group of local businesspeople wanted to establish a recreational center for youths, and they organized a YMCA at the site. In the 1960s the YMCA disbanded, but with the help of the United Way of Berks County, the center was kept open.

Today, the Birdsboro Community Memorial Center operates as a nonprofit organization and remains partnered with the United Way. "We survive on membership dues, grants and donations," Kraljevich stated, noting that people do not have to be residents of Birdsboro to join. "We have a lot of members coming from Twin Valley (School District) and Robeson (Township)."

Current programs at the center include Fit and Fabulous Wednesdays, which are offered weekly at 9 a.m. for seniors. Chairs are provided and exercises can be customized to fit the ability levels of participants. The class is free with a paid senior membership.

Upcoming programming includes a Family Scarecrow Making workshop on Saturday, Sept. 25, at 11 a.m. Each family will create one scarecrow to take home. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

An adult craft night will be offered on Tuesday, Sept. 28, at 7:30 p.m. Attendees will learn how to make an autumn bouquet from pinecones.

All necessary supplies will be provided for both programs, and advance registration and payment are required. Center members will receive a discount. Register by calling 610-582-2471 or emailing bcmc02@ptd.net.

Four membership plans are available: Youth, ages 10 to 15; Student, ages 16 to 21; Adult, ages 22 to 64; and Senior, age 65 and over. One-day guest passes are also available.

Included in the membership is 24-hour access to the fitness center for people age 16 and over. "There is weightlifting equipment, treadmills, rowing machines and stationary bikes," Kraljevich noted. "There is an entrance with a keycard; they swipe it, and it allows them to exercise 24/7."

Also offered are dance classes, yoga and martial arts classes. "They are run through other organizations, and they use our space," Kraljevich noted.

Kraljevich hopes to offer new programs such as a drive-up Halloween event in October. "I (began as executive director) in July and we are just getting started," she said.

The Birdsboro Community Memorial Center is located at 201 E. Main St., Birdsboro. For more information, visit the previously mentioned website or search for "Birdsboro Community Memorial Center" on Facebook.