Submitted by Robbie Kepic

The Pleasure Island Ministerial Association invites the public to celebrate the Christian Service Center’s 20th anniversary June 16 at 3 p.m. at the center’s location 317 Dolphin Ave., Gulf Shores. Mayor Robert Craft of Gulf Shores and Mayor Tony Kennon of Orange Beach will present proclamations honoring the milestone. Tours of the center will be given and refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the program. 

Twenty years ago the Pleasure Island Ministerial Association realized the need in this growing area for emergency aid for people needing help with food and other services.  The PIMA had a Community Thanksgiving Service and a Sunrise Easter Service where donations were solicited to support such services.  The funds were made available to all member ministers for use in their churches, but it soon became apparent that more help was needed. 

Through the efforts of many individuals, organizations and churches, the Christian Service Center began serving the citizens of South Baldwin County on June 17, 1991.  The Center was open three days a week operating out of a donated storefront with an all volunteer staff.  In the early years, the Center served up to 300 families a year.  Last year, 2010, the center served 1,718 families.   Today the Center is open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m-noon, and has two buildings at 317 Dolphin Ave., Gulf Shores. 

The Christian Service Center is a “Hand Up” rather than a “Hand Out” agency.  Clients are given immediate emergency aid as well as guidance on finding solutions to problems.  The CSC is a 100 percent volunteer agency funded by the churches of Pleasure Island, various community organizations and interested individuals. For more information please call the CSC at 251-968-5256 or visit our web page, www.cscgs.com.