The Black Cultural Center is in need of repair. Unfortunately, Bob Villa and Tim “the tool man” Taylor are not available. But volunteers are.

Beginning this Saturday the Black Cultural Center, at 517 Welch Ave., will be getting a face lift courtesy of the Black Student Alliance. “Friends of the BCC,” a program sponsored by the BSA, is collecting contributions to clean and remodel the center.

“This house is in dire need of help,” said Meron Wondwosen, a junior in political science and president of BSA. She said BCC activities and services have diminished in recent years due to the condition of the house.

Allan Nosworthy, president of the BCC and a graduate student in creative writing, said the center cannot be used for events due to its condition.

“Right now the house is not in any condition to be used for programming or other events that other black cultural centers around the country are,” he said

Throughout October, volunteers will be cleaning, painting and decorating.

The clean-up will continue every Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. for the next three weekends.

The BSA is asking for money and donations of cleaning supplies, white paint, books for the library, furniture and tools.

“[The clean-up] is a chance for everyone in the Ames community to participate in the rehabilitation of the BCC,” Nosworthy said.

“Anyone can help with the clean-up effort, especially those interested in preserving this historical house,” Wondwosen added.

The clean-up begins Saturday at 2 p.m. Donations can be arranged by contacting Nosworthy at 232-7466. Volunteer workers are welcome to help without prior notice.

“Whatever we get from donations will be appreciated for the BCC.

“Anything we can put together now will be an improvement,” Wondwosen said.

The BCC opened its doors in January 1970. It offers African-American students receptions, lectures, films, the Jack Trice Library and Black History Month events.

The university recently allocated funds for structural repairs to the center.