Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Dakota Center has been in the City of Dayton 50 years.
What is your primary product or service?
Human services and with special attention on youth and seniors.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
As the Executive Director, I became aware of the center because its location was in my neighborhood. While employed at the City of Dayton and volunteering as a neighborhood association president, I met Father Philip C. Hoelle, founder of the Dakota Center. We became friends and he later asked me to join the staff of the center as Executive Director. This happened fifteen (15) years ago. As a grassroots community leader, I am committed to helping our community residents, whether youth or seniors, empowering them to become self-sufficient.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
Dakota Center focuses on youth and seniors. Programs, activities, and resources are provided daily to City of Dayton/Montgomery County residents. We are open year-round and closed for holidays. Review website and face book for hours of programming.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
There is one location - 33 Barnett Street, Dayton, OH 45402
Provide detailed directions to your location
Located within inner-west city (MacFarlane Neighborhood) two miles west of Sinclair College. Bordering Wright Dunbar village - west.
What type of payments do you accept?
There is no membership fees for Dakota Center. There are user fees for particular programs (check website or call the center).
Which areas do you service?
Dayton/Montgomery County area.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
The Dakota Center, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 community center governed by a Board of Trustees. The center is operated by Sharon Barrett-Mitchell, Executive Director.
What are your hours of operation?
Youth programs, Monday-Friday, 2-6 p.m. Senior programs - Golden Age Club, Tuesday-Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Congregate meal site, open five days per week, 12:00 noon. 3DI Drill, Dance, & Percussion - Practice Tues./Thurs., 5:30-7:30 p.m., Youth Basketball - Practice times, Monday, Wednesday 4:00-7:00 p.m.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
We are a safe haven for youth and seniors.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
'Thou is able to keep thee in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee'... Isa. 26:3-4