Harlem Community Center
Established in 1957 by concerned citizens of Harlem Township, the Harlem Community Center began as the Harlem Youth Council, dedicated to providing safe recreational opportunities for children in the community. Over the years, the Center has grown from serving 200 individuals in its first year to becoming a regional outreach agency, touching the lives of over 100,000 individuals annually. Despite facing setbacks such as the loss of their original building to fire in 1967, the Center persevered with the support of local industry, businesses, and individuals, rebuilding stronger than ever and expanding its facilities to accommodate the growing community.
Today, Harlem Community Center operates across three locations, offering a range of services and facilities tailored to meet the diverse needs of its members. From its administrative hub in the Village of Machesney Park to the expansive HCC/Wentland Sport Complex in Loves Park, which includes ball diamonds, basketball courts, and SkateWorks, the Center provides spaces for both relaxation and active engagement. Additionally, the Center's commitment to community care is evident in the Hand-n-Hand Child Care Center, a 27,000 square foot facility dedicated to nurturing the youngest members of the community. Looking ahead, the Center is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in 2024 with the construction of a 40,000 square foot facility, further expanding its services to include a new childcare center, a senior day center, and two large gymnasiums, reaffirming its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the Harlem community.