The address 412 Chestnut St., Emmaus, has become the proving ground for an unique outreach program.

As stated in a promotional handout, "The 412 is an investment in community by the people of the Faith Presbyterian congregation in Emmaus, without any strings attached."

In an era of political polarization which many groups exploit to promote a "we versus they" perspective, Pastor Tim Dooner and his congregation are providing the Emmaus community the opportunity to communicate and to share.

Dooner said the 412 project has its roots in the congregation's response to the question, "How can we encourage people in the community to do things for each other?" Co-chairs Steve Eck and Rob Clark, members of the church's outreach committee, manage the logistics of event scheduling and building maintenance. Anyone wishing to use the handicapped accessible 412 facility for an activity benefiting Emmaus and building community connections may do so free of charge.

Slightly under 1,000 square feet in area, the building comfortably accommodates between 20 and 30 people.

Opened in February as part of the Emmaus Snow Blast event, the 412 has quickly gathered momentum.

Programs already in place include a monthly story time for young children with Kirsten Hess of "Let's Play Books" and a Mommy and Me music hour 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month with Faith Presbyterian's handbell choir director Tammi Howorth.

Downtown merchant "Sugar So Sweet" has employed the space for cupcake decorating demonstrations and the 412 art exhibit showcased local artists.

Sports fans met for an NFL draft party which according to Eck, "... was a blast."

Eck is also considering using the 412 to host an Emmaus Community Fantasy Football League. Eck said any money generated by 412 activities will be donated to community based charities. The 412 is not about fundraising or evangelizing. It is about appreciating each other and uniting as a community.

Dooner sums up the program's goal succinctly, " We are trying to learn … we just [want] the chance to meet more people and give people the chance to meet each other." Anyone needing more information or interested in scheduling an activity at the 412 may do so by accessing 412emmaus@gmail.com, Facebook.com/412emmaus or by contacting the church office at 610-967-5600.