YourSpace Explores New Revenue Source
Sue Dunn
YourSpace Maine was approved for a liquor license on August 11th by the Town Council. The application will now go to the state level for final approval. The purpose for this effort is to provide another revenue stream for the non-profit facility by making YourSpace more competitive with other similar facilities in the area.
There two primary ideas behind this effort. First, YourSpace hopes to attract more adult leagues to their facility by providing an après game atmosphere; a camaraderie building experience for the teams. Second, YourSpace hopes to raise more money at their Second Annual Night In White fund raiser to be held on October 3rd. Last year this was a catered event in which the caterer recognized the profits and tips from liquor sales. If the license can be finalized before October 3rd, the night of the event, YourSpace will benefit from the proceeds.
Sandy Warren, General Manager of YourSpace, explained “The goal is to move toward self-sufficiency. While we are a non-profit facility, grant money is becoming more and more scarce and we have to find ways to make YourSpace more profitable.” Warren went on to explain that the license, if realized, will also make the center more competitive for hosting both social and corporate events.
YourSpace has recently been the victim of two thefts. Towards the end of July someone broke into the sports complex stealing cash, Allagash Black Beef Jerky (sold only at the Center) and candy from the concession stand. Last fall someone stole a basketball hoop and bleachers from outside the building. “All of us who have worked so hard to make YourSpace a success take this personally,” stated Warren. She continued “It is really sad to see someone take away from such a community effort.”