In January 2007, HHM took over the operation of the Auxier Center and it has grown to become a source of education, life skills, recreation, in addition to being a gathering place for social events. More than just a building for the community, the Auxier Center through Hand in Hand has helped to establish hope to families with little or no other professional or social outlets.

One of the Auxier Center’s main goals is to bring Eastern Kentucky residents access to the Internet and new job opportunities by providing free computers to those who complete the center’s computer course. Additionally, through Hand in Hand, the Auxier Center offers GED classes with many graduates and several now in college. Again, it is Hand in Hand’s philosophy to provide basic needs as well as educational opportunities in the hopes of restoring a sense of dignity to the people it serves thereby enabling them to achieve a greater level of self-sufficiency.

In March 2012, deadly tornadoes tore a swath of destruction across the country, affecting tens of thousands, including the Eastern Kentucky communities that the Auxier Center serves. Hand in Hand jumped into action and provided immediate disaster relief as well as ongoing financial and material assistance. Immersion trip volunteers are still working with those affected, repairing roofs and damage from the storms.

Home Repair Program
• Repaired 58 homes for low income families
• 22 groups of volunteers made immersion trips in 2010
• Built 10 wheelchair ramps
Outreach Program
• Served nearly 100 families by distributing items such as clothing, bedding, baby items, furniture, etc.
Food Pantry
• Distributed food to nearly more than 400 low-income families
Spring and Fall Classes
• Educated adults in the basic computer class
• Provided adults with quilting and sewing classes
• Provided cooking, literacy, sewing machine repair and other classes
Five Kids Summer Camps
• Hosted local children
Computer Give Away
• Distributed more than 100 computers to low-income adults and children in West Virginia and Kentucky and offered free computer repair to other families in need.
Assisted other local organizations
Donated books and supplies to:
• Paintsville Independent School
• St. Luke’s Catholic Church
• Beauty Thrift Store
• Goodwill
• Christian Appalachian Projects Elderly Program
Offered
• GED classes with many graduates and several now in college
• Life skills classes for women
• Resume building/job hunting technique classes
• Budgeting classes