ABOUT
The mission, vision, and legacy of the Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Center is intertwined with our vibrant community and its needs.
We are rooted in the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and strive to inspire, uplift, and build a brighter future.
Our Story
Our Founding Story
With a history spanning more than four decades, the Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Center is continuing a proud legacy.
The Reimagined Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Center: A Legacy Renewed
Since 1973, the Martin Luther King Jr. Center has been a cornerstone of community engagement, education, and empowerment. Built on the former Linden School site, the center was dedicated that November, with Coretta Scott King in attendance. The $780,000 facility initially featured basketball courts, a gymnasium, fitness rooms, and multipurpose spaces—designed to serve and uplift the neighborhood.
The Linden School, dating back to 1890, was a vital educational institution, especially for the African American community by the 1940s. As the area flourished culturally and commercially, the school remained central until its closure in the late 1960s due to segregation concerns and aging facilities. Its transformation into the MLK Jr. Center marked a shift from struggle to empowerment and resilience.
Over the years, the King center adapted to meet evolving community needs. In 1980, it hosted its first annual MLK memorial program. By 1998, a new computer lab embraced the digital age. Major renovations followed, including a $350,980 upgrade in 2004, roof replacements in 2005, and a splash pad addition in 2007.
Today, the reimagined MLK Jr. Dream Center builds on this legacy, rooted in its commitment to leadership, education, and wellness. With state-of-the-art fitness spaces, expanded youth programs, cutting-edge technology labs, and enhanced community initiatives, the center remains a beacon of hope and progress. Honoring Dr. King’s legacy through action, service, and opportunity, the Dream Center continues to inspire and empower future generations.
Milestones of Growth
Over the years, the King Center adapted to meet evolving community needs.
Milestones of Growth at the MLK Jr. Dream Center
Over the years, the King center adapted to meet evolving community needs. In 1980, it hosted its first annual MLK memorial program. By 1998, a new computer lab embraced the digital age. Major renovations followed, including a $350,980 upgrade in 2004, roof replacements in 2005, and a splash pad addition in 2007.
A Legacy of Excellence
Today, the reimagined MLK Jr. Dream Center builds on this legacy, rooted in its commitment to leadership, education, and wellness.
The Reimagined Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Center: A Legacy Renewed
Since 1973, the Martin Luther King Jr. Center has been a cornerstone of community engagement, education, and empowerment. Built on the former Linden School site, the center was dedicated that November, with Coretta Scott King in attendance. The $780,000 facility initially featured basketball courts, a gymnasium, fitness rooms, and multipurpose spaces—designed to serve and uplift the neighborhood.
The Linden School, dating back to 1890, was a vital educational institution, especially for the African American community by the 1940s. As the area flourished culturally and commercially, the school remained central until its closure in the late 1960s due to segregation concerns and aging facilities. Its transformation into the MLK Jr. Center marked a shift from struggle to empowerment and resilience.
Over the years, the King center adapted to meet evolving community needs. In 1980, it hosted its first annual MLK memorial program. By 1998, a new computer lab embraced the digital age. Major renovations followed, including a $350,980 upgrade in 2004, roof replacements in 2005, and a splash pad addition in 2007.
Today, the reimagined MLK Jr. Dream Center builds on this legacy, rooted in its commitment to leadership, education, and wellness. With state-of-the-art fitness spaces, expanded youth programs, cutting-edge technology labs, and enhanced community initiatives, the center remains a beacon of hope and progress. Honoring Dr. King’s legacy through action, service, and opportunity, the Dream Center continues to inspire and empower future generations.
Our Vision
Vision Statement
The Dream Center is a vibrant hub where individuals of all ages and backgrounds are empowered to grow, live healthily, and contribute meaningfully.
More on the Vision Statement.
We inspire personal development, foster well-being, and cultivate a spirit of social responsibility. Through education, connection, and the support of a nurturing environment, we help our community members turn their dreams into reality, creating a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
Mission Statement
Through innovative programs, impactful projects, and inspiring events, we empower our community members to build a brighter future – one dream at a time.
Social Responsibility
The Dream Center strives to have programming that is relevant and impactful and to hold true to values of inclusivity, excellence, and sustainability.
Our Impact
Our Donors
The stellar programming and upkeep of the MLK Jr. Dream Center is thanks to our community donors.
Our Commitment to Accessibility
Accessibility is key to the Dream Center’s mission. We strive to create programming that is accessible to all backgrounds, ages, and abilities.
