By Bella Butler MANAGING THE EDITOR
BIG SKY The long-awaited BASE community center will open to the public on March 13, offering recreation, wellness programs and gathering space under the mission for which it’s named: Big Adventure, Safe Environment.
The facility offers adventure from top to bottom, including rock climbing and spin classes. According to Madeleine Feher (BASE Director), the Safe Environment component of BASE is the building’s undertone.
Safety is the main focus of Feher’s security system. It includes a staff safety officer and a state-of the-art security system.
A vestibule at the east entrance of the building will be open beyond normal business hours to provide a warm and indoor space for bus riders to wait while they wait for their bus ride.
Feher stated that the goal is to create that foundation so that we can be trusted by parents, teachers, and professionals to provide that quality experience in safe surroundings.
BSCO also brought in local partnerships to make BASE safer. Shannon Steele is the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation’s behavioral health program officer. She has been working with BASE on ways to integrate psychological support into the building.
Steele will be residing upstairs at the BASE building to serve as a resource for those in the community who are looking for mental health resources. Steele can be reached via the stairs or discreet elevator.
The facility staff will also receive training to become wellness navigators, allowing them to direct people in need of mental support to the appropriate resources.
Steele said that BASE is seen as a centralized hub and an opportunity to equip both the workforce and volunteers with the skillsets to know where the community’s resources are and how they can help people’s health.
Steele hopes to expand the mental health services at BASE, and will adjust as needed.
She said that we want to learn from the community and grow, once the door is opened.
Feher stated that BASE was designed to be a safe place for everyone, including Big Skys youth.
She said that this time in life is so difficult and so important to who you are as an adult. She also stated that BASE could be a place where young people can seek guidance, safety, and support.
SPark, also known as the Spanish Peaks Area for Recreation and Knowledge is one of the first places you see in BASE. The lounge features comfortable seating, ping-pong, air hockey, and fusbol tables as well as a TV.
Feher stated that this space is not only for youth. Montgomery and Feher stressed the importance of BASE’s gathering space.
BASE will not contain any substances, except for approved functions.
Feher said that that is just part of Feher’s mission. He wanted to create an alternative space where everyone can go in and feel comfortable and not have to face something that might make them uncomfortable.
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BASE will host community day on March 11-12, where community members can visit the space, buy membership passes, and learn more about it.
March 1st is the first day of sales for BASE memberships The purchase link and registration for classes and programs will be available at bsco.org.
Keep checking back for more coverage of BASE as it approaches the March 13 opening. Find out more about Big Adventure in Big Skys community center.