OAK GROVE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The Oak Grove Community Center is under new leadership, with Eric Hauser taking over the position in late fall. As he takes the reins on this newly classified role, Hauser has some fun events set in motion leading up to the holidays and is already looking ahead on how to best support the community.

Recently retired from the military after serving at Fort Campbell, Hauser told Christian County Now that he was seeking a new sense of purpose when he sought after the community center/parks and recreation director position. His experience serving the city dates back to his work with the local mason lodge, which often involved collaborations with the community center.

Tackling the job, plans for growth

The previous director at the community center was suddenly terminated in September after holding the position for about eight years. As Hauser eases into the job, he remains focused on the future saying, “I am focused on what I am here to do and support the mayor, the city, and communities needs.”

Day to day, he hopes to apply his skillset and passion to serve a wide demographic of residents in Oak Grove, Christian County, Fort Campbell, and across the state line in Clarksville, Tennessee. He is looking forward to building relationships and rapport with residents, with plans to host a meet and greet in early 2026 to better get acquainted with the community.

“It’s not about what I want for the community,” said Hauser. “It’s about what the community wants as well.” In the coming months, he hopes to initiate community collaborations and get more connected with organizations and nonprofits while expanding their resource guides. He added that he is a very transparent leader and hopes that the community center will continue to act as a beacon for residents who are seeking activities, resources and support.

December events at the Oak Grove Community Center

Regularly scheduled programs will still be held, as posted on their monthly calendar. This includes Zumba, yoga, arts and crafts, open gym and more. There are a few Christmas themed events coming up at the Oak Grove Community Center, including Story Time with Santa on Dec. 17. Santa will be reading The Night Before Christmas and giveaway special gifts along with a tree lighting ceremony with the mayor.

The community center will also once again provide space for the yearly food/gift pantry that will be open to the public on Dec. 19, sponsored by A Mission of Hope. During the event, people are able to shop through a variety of holiday gift and food items. Breakfast with Santa will be on Dec. 20. From 9-11 a.m., Hauser and Oak Grove Mayor Jackie Oliver will be cooking up breakfast favorites for $5, with proceeds going to Feeding America. Each meal ticket also enters residents into a raffle where they can win gift baskets valued up to $200.

All events are open to Oak Grove and Christian County residents as well as military families, veterans, and surrounding communities in Clarksville. Find updated information about events and programs on the Oak Grove Community Center Facebook page.

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