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Hawthorne Community Center has proudly served the Near Westside for over 80 years. In 1923, 50 neighborhood residents formed the West Park Social Service Association and pursued the new construction of a Community Center on railroad property that was targeted to become a coal dump. Reverend Clarence Baker became the first director of Hawthorne Community Center that was orginally supported by weekly donations from neighborhood residents. The cost of the original building was $20,000 which housed an office area, game room, gymnasium/auditorium/stage and kitchen area. Major fires in 1966 and in 1975 created great consternation for the community as their beloved Center was threatened, but the determination of residents and the generosity of funders enabled the programs and services to continue. The new Hawthorne facility was dedicated in 1979 with twice the space that was previously available in the original building. Hawthorne's programs have continued to grow and change to meet the emerging needs within the community. The Hawthorne Board of Directors, staff and clients continue to evaluate current programs and services while developing long range plans for the future of the Community Center.