With support from the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, Winchendon CAC revitalized The Hub to serve residents of all ages. Renovations and program expansions—including the Sunshine Café, Youth Changemaker Leadership Program, and Makerspace Kitchen—are creating a space where young people gain skills, confidence, and opportunities, while the community benefits from a vibrant hub of activity and connection.
CFNCM Investment Helps Transform The Hub into a Thriving Community Anchor
Winchendon, MA — With support from the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts (CFNCM), Winchendon Community Action Committee (CAC) has completed a comprehensive transformation of The Hub, creating a welcoming, accessible, and financially sustainable community space that serves residents of all ages, with a focus on local youth. All project goals were met, resulting in a revitalized facility that is already delivering meaningful impact.
CFNCM funding supported key infrastructure and program enhancements throughout The Hub. Renovations included new branding, murals, and wayfinding signage, designed pro-bono by Perkins & Will, giving the space a cohesive and inviting identity. An outdoor classroom was added through a full renovation of the back patio, expanding opportunities for workshops, youth programs, and community gatherings. Two new ADA-compliant entrances and ramps now ensure full accessibility to the food pantry, storage areas, and programming spaces, improving both safety and dignity for all visitors.
A cornerstone of the project is the relaunch of the Sunshine Café and the expansion of the Youth Changemaker Leadership and Workforce Development Program. Teens now lead café operations, manage bowling lanes, and gain hands-on experience in culinary arts, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The newly completed Makerspace Kitchen further supports local makers and small food businesses while generating earned revenue. Together, the café, Makerspace, and bowling alley are projected to generate approximately $20,000 annually toward operations, contributing to The Hub’s long-term sustainability.
Early results demonstrate a strong community response. More than 100 residents attended an October 2025 Open House, after-school programming now serves over 50 youth each week, and 12 partner organizations have launched programs at The Hub. Thirteen local makers are actively engaged in the Makerspace, with eight already generating sales. These initiatives are helping ensure that The Hub remains both a vibrant community resource and a financially resilient organization.
“My experience at The Hub helped me grow from a shy teenager into a confident leader and contributed to my college acceptance.”
- — Kaiya, Youth Changemaker
Perhaps most powerfully, The Hub is changing lives. Youth leaders describe it as a place of belonging, opportunity, and growth, particularly for teens who previously lacked access to free, welcoming spaces. One Youth Changemaker, Kaiya, shared how her experience at The Hub helped her grow from a shy teenager into a confident leader and contributed to her recent college acceptance. Her story reflects the broader ripple effect of CFNCM’s investment: empowering young people, strengthening community connections, and creating a future where opportunity is accessible to all.
CFNCM’s support was transformational—allowing Winchendon CAC to complete critical renovations, launch signature programs, diversify revenue, and position The Hub for its next phase of development, including a planned transition to 100% electric operations by 2026. The result is a community space residents are proud of and one that will serve Winchendon for years to come.