SUNSET GAP-Josh Dunn has been named the new executivedirector of Sunset Gap Community Center.

Dunn assumed his duties two weeks ago and said he hopesto continue and improve Sunset Gap's service to area residents.

"I want to ensure our ministries continue and thatwe can help the people of Cocke County," said Dunn. "As a fulltimedirector, I will pursue more grants and endowments to enable Sunset Gap toserve even more Cocke County residents who are need, as well as strengthen thepre-school's progress and community services."

Dunn, who is a member of Bybee Methodist Church, is nostranger to Sunset Gap ministry, having served with the organization asfacilities manager and camp supervisor during the past six years.

"On behalf of our board, we had been in search of adirector for over a year," said Sunset Gap Board Member Pat Helms."Josh has always been a strong contender for consideration after MartinRiley left last spring.

"Josh essentially became our interim directorthrough  the summer and impressedthe board with his accomplishments, which included general supervision ofprograms as well as gaining new grants and becoming a certified contractor.

"Therefore, the board has great confidence in Josh'sabilities to become an outstanding director for the community center."

Sunset Gap, which is affiliated with the PresbyterianChurch USA, operates primarily on grants, endowments, donations from churchesand individual contributions.

The center has been serving the region for 85 years, butit's ministry has been in the area for nearly 100 years. Sunset Gap has sevenfulltime employees, with much of its assistance provided through volunteerefforts. More than 880 volunteers from various church denominations helped fixhomes this past summer, according to Dunn.

Work camps worked on 42 homes this past year in Cocke,Greene and Sevier counties.

Dunn said residents needing assistance must fill out anapplication and have to meet certain criteria and income guidelines.

For more information about Sunset Gap, call the center at623-4313.