143 W.Center College St

Resident donates affordable home

A home donation was made in memory of Charles Clauser by his wife, Suzanne Clauser, in 2001. Charles Clauser, a 50-year Yellow Springs resident who worked for many years as an anthropologist for Wright Patterson Air Force Base and anthropological Research, died in June 2000. During the years Suzanne was involved in the Affordable Housing Task force, a group that worked to get an affordable housing development built on the Glass Farm, her husband was her staunchest supporter, Clauser said.

"He thought creating affordable housing was something we had to do, and was behind me all the way," said Clauser. When she became discouraged about the difficulties faced by the task force, her husband kept her spirits up and reminded her of the group's importance, she said. 

The house, located at 143 West Center College, was owned by Fran Hurie,
long-time local teacher and avid gardener. When the home was sold (minus the price of the lot, which is owned by the CLT), Clauser received the proceeds from the purchase, so that her actual donation to the group is the difference between that price and the price she paid; an amount that is tax deductible, she said. 

The house was renovated using local contractors—AC Service, Shook's Carpentry and Cabinetry, Tom Noftle, and Jamie Struewing—and many dedicated volunteers, including homeowner, Terri Wehrley-Pyles and her son, Folger. 

Home Inc. members hope the Clauser gift is only the beginning of a new way for local residents to honor the memory of loved ones as well as address what they perceive as a significant need for our community. "What a beautiful way to leave a legacy to our community," commented volunteer coordinator, Al Schlueter. "We hope this gift is the first of many more."       

*includes excerpts from YS News article by Diane Chiddister