Plum Community Center programs are under new leadership.

Resident Samantha Lamorte took over for former program coordinator Maria Schafer in February.

Schafer, who served as program coordinator since September 2016, left the center at 499 Center-New Texas Road to pursue another job.

Lamorte, 26, worked as a cook for nearly two years at the center’s café, and a few weeks as administrative assistant before being promoted to coordinator.

“I’m thankful for the opportunities that I’ve had here,” Lamorte said. “I’m just excited moving forward and to see where this opportunity takes me. Working in the community I live in is really nice. The staff and volunteers especially, I couldn’t do anything without them. I think I’ve found my niche and what I’m good at.”

Her first major event at the center was a volunteers’ banquet May 9 at Veltre’s. More than 100 people participated. Lamorte said it was a tremendous success.

Lamorte, a 2011 Plum graduate, said she would like to incorporate more evening activities and attract more families. She has a 9-year-old son, Hunter Krantz.

Center Executive Director Karen Hochberg said Lamorte’s rapid rise through the ranks is due to her hard work and skills.

“It’s clear that she’s organized, smart and talented,” Hochberg said. “I wanted to give her the opportunity, and she’s delivering.”

Hochberg declined to specifically give Lamorte’s salary, but noted she works part time, and part timers make between $10 and $15 per hour.

The center serves about 70 people a day with its various activities.

None are expected to change any time soon. The café closed in January because it was not profitable.

Hochberg said the kitchen would still be used for cooking demonstrations and special events.

Center activities include yoga, bingo, line dancing, tai chi, card games, poetry readings, monthly birthday parties, brass quintet concerts, crafts, free health screenings and various support group meetings.

More information about the center is available at plumcommunitycenter.org or call 412-795-2330.

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