BenitoLink receives some funding from the Community Foundation for San Benito County.
On Feb. 17, the Community Foundation for San Benito County hosted a welcome event at its new building for 70 people that included major donors, building benefactors and current and past board members.
The 9,324-square-foot philanthropic center named Epicenter, located at 440 San Benito Street in Hollister, will house 10 nonprofits starting in March. The building is equipped to house 17 nonprofits.
Community Foundation Board Chair Fernando Gonzalez credited Community Foundation President and CEO Gary Byrne for his hard work in seeing this project to completion.
“Gary’s been for months walking like Flash Gordon up and down San Benito Street trying to get this building built and make sure the donors are happy,” Gonzalez said.
Rebecca Wolf, who along with her husband, Randy, donated $5.5 million for the building, said despite opposition from Hollister Mayor Ignacio Velazquez they were able to construct the Epicenter.
“We see this project as being not just for the Community Foundation and downtown Hollister but also good for the other nonprofits working in the county,” Wolf said. It says, ‘we’re here and we’re here for good!’”
Velazquez, who owns the Vault next to the Epicenter, led a referendum effort and threatened to sue the development of the 400 block. The attorney general, however, opined the sale of the property was not subject to a referendum and Velazquez didn’t follow through on his lawsuit threat.
Byrne said there are over 140 nonprofits operating in San Benito County. BenitoLink, which will be housed in the new building, began as a project of the Community Foundation and became a nonprofit in 2015.
Among those present was Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Renee Wells.
“The Epicenter has revitalized an area destroyed by the 1989 earthquake and will add vibrancy, activity and renewed interest in downtown development by becoming a hub for social and economic activity.”
Adjacent to the Epicenter, Del Curto Brothers Group is also building a three-story structure that will include retail space and 22 condominiums.
Byrne presented decorative ceramic bowls to donors as mementos. Byrne also presented Randy Wolf with a wrapped gift and playfully directed him to open it at home, but not share it with his wife.
Following speeches and a presentation, Byrne provided a tour of the building.
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Hollister mayor appeals planning commission approval of 400 block development
Planning Commission approves use permit for 400 block development
Hollister Mayor’s letter delays approval of 400 block tentative map
Hollister City Council approves amendment to 400 block agreement
Designs approved for 400 block buildings
Attorney general decision goes against petition to stop sale of 400 block
Hollister councilman asks experts to explain why city must sell 400 block