OPPORTUNITY — The Opportunity Community Club was literally the heart of this small community over a century ago, so many were heartbroken when this building fell into disrepair a few years ago. But the folks here have come together and rebuilt it better than ever, and many can’t wait to get back inside and try out the dance floor again.

“This is the best dance floor I’ve ever been on because it gives when you swing and sway. If it could talk, it could tell you some good stories,” said 89-year-old Cait Francisco.

In 1924, the Anaconda Company provided the raw materials and the people of Opportunity, about six miles east of Anaconda, built the community center. For decades, the center was used for dances, wedding receptions, family reunions and other community events.

“And I remember this place being dear to my mother, my father and our whole family,” said volunteer Leslie Stone.

The building stopped being used about seven years ago and was quickly falling into disrepair. The roof was in danger of collapsing and the center was likely to be demolished. About two years ago, Opportunity residents came together to raise money and began repairing the old building.

“The older people come in and each of them has a story about a dance, about how they met their spouse here – yes, everyone has a story,” said the project’s fundraising manager, Linda McGillen.

Opportunity resident Tammy Fischer added, “Without this building, we probably wouldn’t all be here because this is where my mom and dad met… at a dance!”

Through donations and grant applications, the team was able to raise about $160,000 to restore the building, which will soon celebrate its grand reopening in celebration of its 100th anniversary. A lot of work was needed to complete the project.

“It doesn’t feel like work at all. It feels like we’re all working together on a project that will benefit us in the future and that we’ll remember forever,” Stone said.

The center will hold its grand reopening on August 24th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.