From humble roots dating back to 1994, when the idea of a teen center sparked interest, the community center has dramatically improved the civic landscape of Litchfield since its opening in July of 2000.

More than two dozen local clubs and organizations use the center for meetings and activities. Under the direction of its executive director, Berta Andrulis Mette, the center is a bustling place as it caters to the needs of the community.

Litchfield can thank the generosity of the late Sonia P. (Sunny) Seherr-Thoss for the center. As a resident and philanthropist, Seherr-Thoss recognized the need for a community center, especially after Andrulis Mette and the likes of residents Deborah Schaaf, Dianne Saunders, Jo Friday, Adele Goodkind, Virginia Mortara and the Rev. Robert F. Tucker formed the Meeting House Board of Directors in 1998 to search for a site for facility that would serve all segments of the community.

With her visionary spirit and financial commitment, Mrs. Seherr-Thoss got the community center project rolling. The White Memorial Foundation stepped forward and agreed to grant a renewable 25-year lease for the two acres the community center occupies at 421 Bantam Road.

"The Litchfield Community Center would not be if she had not embraced the project with her heart, soul and mark of excellence," Andrulis Mette wrote in a history of the community center. "With her commitment and generosity, she provided the organization a strong foundation and promising future. Despite the physical absence of Sunny, her remarkable intentions, noble ideals and genius of conscience are immortal. She remains a guiding compass and inspiration to all who knew her."

Seherr-Thoss will be honored at a gala dinner and dance that will conclude the anniversary celebration on July 17. The community center will be dedicated in her honor during the event.

Groundbreaking for the center took place in August 1999 and construction followed. A team of Litchfield professionals that included architect Paul Hinkel, interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud, Rod Oneglia of Burlington Construction, and Dan and Joyce Lake of the Litchfield Horticulture Center, pooled their talents to create a unique building and property that is not only welcoming but versatile and multi-functional.

In April 2000, Andrulis Mette was hired as the executive director as the building project headed toward completion. A grand opening was held on July 28, 2000.

The week's worth of activities offer something for everyone, according to Andrulis Mette, and are free.

"We want people to come and celebrate the spirit of the community center," she said.

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