Harlem Community Center is now a much welcome ‘multi-purpose space’
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COURTESY PHOTO The Journal
Pictured is the new 40,000 square foot facility that includes a new childcare center, a senior daisy photo center, and two large gymnasiums.
A definite benefit for the Parks area is the Harlem Community Center administrative facility, 900 Roosevelt Road in Machesney Park, recently received an $8.9 million state grant and has opened a new facility “supporting needs that are able to provide quality licensed childcare in the region.”
The HCC offers early childhood education, school-aged care and senior day services to enhance needed resources in the community.
A ribbon cutting and open house for the facility’s Heart of the Parks Early Learning Center” was attended by local residents and community leaders on Jan. 31.
HCC CEO Sharon Scheffel spoke at the event saying, “As the years have grown, HCC evolved because we are a community center and work to meet the needs of the community…what the community wants and needs we try to do. Our brand new home will hopefully benefit the individuals in the community for years to come.”
The facility offers early childhood education, school-aged care and senior day services to enhance needed resources in the community.
Next weekend Harlem Community Center will be hosting its first sweetheart dance at the new facility for members of the community to attend.
The website for Harlem Community Center is https://harlemcommunitycenter.org/. Listed are programs provided through the HCC that include (but are not limited to) T-Ball, softball, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, child care (infant through pre-k), and beginning this year, “Senior Day Services.”
A campaign underway now is “Buy a Brick!” Noted on the website is this information: “Our garden patio will be built on a foundation of community support with the ability to purchase a custom brick. Don’t miss this opportunity to leave your mark and secure your place in our community center’s legacy. Purchase your custom brick today and become a part of something truly special. Prices start at $75!”
Additionally, the web site notes, “Each year, Harlem Community Center provides opportunities for over 100,000 individuals. HCC’s users live throughout Northern Winnebago County but the largest group of users lives in Loves Park, Machesney Park, and Roscoe.
“Neither Machesney Park nor Roscoe have park districts so many of their residents look to HCC to be the recreational provider for their families. Programming opportunities exist for residents throughout their life cycle but youth are our primary focus. HCC begins programming for children age three with an emphasis on education and family involvement. It is our belief that providing a positive environment for individuals to grow is the best form of prevention.
“Whether that’s through our youth sports leagues or our preschool and early childhood education programs, building character, enhancing self-esteem, physical activity, and growing social networks are just a few of our goals. HCC is all about preventing problems in youth before they begin. When children are involved in activities, making friends, and seeing strong adult role models they do better in school and are less likely to engage in negative behaviors.”
HCC currently operates out of three locations.; HCC’s administrative facility is in the Village of Machesney Park. This facility is home to the administrative offices, a gymnasium, and classrooms.
The HCC/Wentland Sport Complex, located in Loves Park, is a 32-acre facility created to meet the needs for open green space and for both passive and active recreational opportunities. It currently has 15 ball diamonds (4-6 tournament quality), basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, a walking path, and SkateWorks.