The YARN (Young and Restoring Nations) Foundation officially opened on Wednesday afternoon in Montgomery.

Over 400 people turned out to welcome YARN, a non-profit multicultural community development organization that specializes in providing guidance and assistance for 21st century youth and their families.

“We’re very excited,” said President and co-founder John Anthony. “We’re excited that we’re done with the actual building and can now start building up in the community.”

Deborah Anthony, Vice-President, co-founder and John’s wife, said the place “was jumping!” and she was impressed and touched that so many had turned out to support the organization.

“They are a refreshing cup of lemonade to the community,” said Shadia Kemper, who volunteers at YARN.

“They have brought such a wonderful thing to the area,” chimed in Christina Sanchez, who worked next door at the Dollar General and knows the Anthonys from other local events and projects.

The YARN Foundation started out as a dream for John Anthony. A Plainfield resident and Kendall County police officer, Anthony has seen kids fall into drugs and gangs, and he has seen up close what happens to kids without an education and a positive influence.

For ten years he dreamed, and this year it has all come together as he and his wife Deborah opened YARN yesterday.

John Anthony said the foundation will open a community center, called The Cave, which will offer free tutoring to students and a place to hang out after school. Tutoring will start on September 25.

YARN has plans for a computer lab so they can offer GED classes for those looking to complete their education. The foundation will also host different events and drives, like the coat drive coming up in the fall, to support the community.

“We cannot be more excited or more humbled,” said John Anthony. “It’s time to get to work.”

For more on the YARN Foundation, check out their Facebook page and their website.