A group of local teens began their spring break at Catalina Island Medical Center. These youths weren't in the emergency room they were volunteering outside the facility, including painting and landscaping.

The volunteers were taking part in a larger effort to beautify the front of the building in conjunction with the nearly completed renovation work inside the building.

Throughout the day on March 28, the teens from the CornerStone TeenCenter pulled weeds, painted railings and completed other odd jobs.

"They were just wonderful," said CIMC Director of Maintenance Bill Vlcan. "They were willing to take on any task."

According to CornerStone youth leader Scott Schmeckpeper, the work at Catalina Island Medical Center kicked off a week of service, which included a trip to South Central Los Angeles later in the week.

Vlcan said he was particularly impressed with the volunteers' attitude. "When they were here they had such a good time," he said. "They're great role models for the rest of the town."

While the teens painted and weeded, Vlcan worked on another outdoor project, painting the facility's trim from pink to blue. At times the director of maintenance hung over the roof line with his paint brush.

The community will have the opportunity to see all of the work that has been done inside and outside the facility during an open house on Wednesday, April 20, from 6 to 9 p.m. During the open house tours of the facility will be offered and refreshments and appetizers will be served.

For more information visit www.CatalinaIslandMedicalCenter.org