Douglass Community Center
Location: 512 East Grove St.
Phone: 217-398-2573
Fax: 217-398-2575
Bus
Line: Gray
Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday-Sunday: Programming Only
Open Gym Hours vary, please call.
The Douglass Community Center is equipped with a full-size gymnasium
with six basketball goals and a stage. The
building is open seven days a week for informal and
organized programs and activities.
History:
- In July of 1941 neighborhood residents formed "The Douglass
Community Service Center Committee" and had a mass meeting
to start fundraising efforts because the black community's
needs were not being met with the inadequate, segregated facilities
which existed at the time.
-
By 1943, land adjacent to Douglass Park was acquired through
increased efforts by the black community.
-
In September of 1943 a second proposal to the federal government
for a grant was made. The government agreed to offer $18,500
provided the community could raise an additional $14,500.
Funds were raised from various
groups including; the black
community ($3000), Home and War Chest Organization ($2500),
City of
Champaign Recreation Department ($3500), City of Urbana
($2000), and the remainder funded
by individual donations.
-
Ground was broken for the new facility on Feb. 18, 1945
-
Original construction cost of the 17,058 sq. ft building was
$35,000
-
Dedicated Sept. 23, 1945.

Programs
Health and Wellness
Morning Walking 8-9:30
Youth Special Interest
Summer Daycamps
L.E.A.D. Afterschool Program
School Days Out Programs
Teens
STEP Team
Sports
Basketball
-Midnight Basketball League
-1st String
-HEAT Basketball Team
Volleyball
-Open Gym
Roller Skating
-Adult and Family Night
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