Hobart's Run Buys Cameras for Ricketts Center

Jocelyn Charles, director of The Ricketts Community Center, shows off the views made possible with the center's new security cameras.

Blogger's Note: The following was submitted by Hobart's Run.

Hobart’s Run, a Pottstown neighborhood improvement initiative, has donated about $4,000 in funds to Boyertown Area Multi-Service at The Ricketts Center to cover installation of several security cameras and related signage for the playground and outdoor basketball court areas of the 658 Beech St. facility.

In addition, they have purchased highly visible safety vests to be utilized by volunteers at the Center when they are engaging with children and other guests.

Cathy Skitko, director of Hobart’s Run Communications and a member of the Ricketts Center Advisory Board, learned of the need for cameras during a conversation with fellow board members who wanted to ensure the safety of children and teenagers utilizing the equipment. After conferring with colleagues, Hobart’s Run decided to fund the cameras as well as signs that alert guests to the presence of cameras and other safety rules.

“One of Hobart’s Run’s main goals is to create a safe and clean community,” Skitko says. “We truly value our partnership with the Ricketts Center -- and were happy to meet this need and help support the Center’s wellness programming for Pottstown youths.”

The cameras were ordered according to specifications provided by the Borough of Pottstown’s Parks and Recreation Department. The cameras are similar to those installed in the borough by the borough’s Police Department.

Jocelyn Charles, Director of the Ricketts Center and Pottstown native, thought the cameras would be a good addition to the blacktop and playground areas as the surveillance will provide an added layer of community comfort.

“The cameras are for the Ricketts Center use only,” Jocelyn says. “These cameras will help us monitor conduct and proactively handle any concerns in the moment and, hopefully, their presence will discourage behavior that otherwise might lead us to pursue further action.

“We want the community to feel comfortable and confident that the Ricketts Center is looking out for the best interest and safety of everyone who uses our facilities as well as our Pottstown neighbors,” Jocelyn adds. “We really appreciate this contribution from Hobart’s Run and their interest in supporting the Center.”

Established in 2016, Hobart’s Run focuses specifically on an area of Pottstown bordered by North Washington Street in the west; Beech, Grant, and Jackson streets in the north, and Keim Street in the east. A 501 (c)(3), its mission is to create a clean and safe community; foster inclusivity; provide incentives for home ownership and property pride; and generate quality business development, all while supporting revitalization efforts throughout Pottstown.