How to Start a Community Center

A community center is a meeting place for people in a specific area or neighborhood. Community centers also offer a safe place for kids to hang out after school. The people gather there for activities such as sports, dances and classes. Some centers charge a fee while others are privately funded. This article will instruct you on how to start a community center.

How to Start a Community Center

1. 
   

   Decide what your community center will offer the community. Some options include access to computers or youth centers. You center could offer classes such as poetry, tennis or crafts. Create a schedule for classes and activities, such as a night for bingo games, Sunday morning breakfast and fitness classes.

   
   


2. 
   

   Create a mission statement for the center. Determine how you will educate the people in the community and provide a social base for the area. Learn about needs of the community to help you create a mission statement.

   
   


3. 
   

   Check with your local government to learn about rules, regulations and licenses. Also ask about zoning, insurance, and permits. There may be other paperwork to fill out as well.

   
   


4. 
   

   Obtain funding for the community center. You can apply for loans at a bank and apply for government grants. Ask local businesses to contribute or invest in the center.

   
   


5. 
   

   Locate a building for the community center. Consider places such as spaces in schools, libraries and church basements.

   
   


6. 
   

   Hire staff for the center. You can also choose volunteer staff.