1 Star - Deeply Disappointed in Our Experience at Core Event Center (Irwin, PA)…read more
Our organization, the Hempfield Spartan Youth Football and Cheer program, hosted our annual banquet at Core Event Center in Irwin (100 Colony Dr.), and unfortunately, the experience was incredibly disappointing from start to finish.
The evening before our event, we were informed by the event coordinator, Joe, that our setup time would be delayed from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. While inconvenient, we adjusted and rearranged our delivery and setup plans accordingly. However, when we arrived at 9:00 AM the next morning, all doors were locked. After multiple calls, we learned that the chef -- who was responsible for letting us in -- had overslept. We weren't able to access the building until 9:30 AM, which significantly cut into our already limited setup time.
Upon entering, we discovered the banquet hall was still filled with leftover decorations and items from the previous event, and the seating layout did not match the floor plan we had been provided. Instead of immediately setting up for our event, our volunteers had to spend valuable time cleaning and rearranging the room ourselves.
Once the event began, things continued to go downhill. We had clearly communicated that our event would include both adult buffets and a kids' buffet (chicken tenders, mac & cheese, corn dog nuggets, and penne pasta), since this was primarily a children's event for ages 5-11. When it was time to eat, there was no kids' buffet provided. Only two adult buffets were set out, and when the children didn't eat the food offered, much of it was wasted. By the time many parents reached the buffet line, the food had already run out -- just 30 minutes into service -- leaving several tables of guests without meals at all.
In addition, soda and nonalcoholic drink stations were not maintained, leaving the kids with limited options unless they stood in line at the bar. This created unnecessary confusion and frustration for both families and staff.
To make matters worse, when concerns were brought up to management, rather than offering a sincere apology or meaningful resolution, we were met with excuses about miscommunication, staffing, and scheduling. The owner did not take accountability and instead offered to "take money off" by removing items (like chair covers) that were already supposed to be included in our package.
As a nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to create special experiences for our athletes and families, this entire situation was extremely disappointing. What should have been a joyful celebration turned stressful and disorganized due to poor management and planning.
We truly hope Core Event Center takes this feedback seriously and improves its communication, reliability, and professionalism moving forward. Based on our experience, we cannot recommend this venue for large group events or banquets.
