In 1988, the Wallace H. Jerome family, through the Wallace H. Jerome Foundation, Inc., offered a gift of $1,000,000 to the Barron Community (later raised to $1.2 million) for use in constructing a community center in memory of the late Marion E. Jerome. The community was challenged to raise funds to match the gift. The community matched and surpassed the Jerome gift to fund the $2,650,000 project.

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The center was envisioned as a facility to satisfy the needs of the Spotlighters, the Barron Area Schools, the City and other local organizations. The goal of the Center is to strive to meet the cultural, educational, recreational and civic needs of the Barron area residents.

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Through the joint efforts of local residents, organizations, businesses, schools, and the City, the Barron Area Community Center has become a reality. Because the active involvement and support of the Barron area residents, the reality of the Barron Area Community Center affords individuals the opportunity to enrich their personal lives and enhance their quality of life.

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Currently, the Barron Area Community Center is enjoyed and utilized by a variety of organizations, businesses, school districts, and individuals over 350 days a year. The Center averages approximately 180,000 annual visits and has over 1500 members from 38 communities & townships.