The Western Avenue Community Center [WACC] held a ‘Block Party’ centennial celebration Saturday in Bloomington.
The WACC holds programming for youth and seniors, interpretation and translation services and food programs largely paid for through donations. The celebration featured food, activities, free items and music and dance performances. Donations were encouraged during the free event.
“Our goal is really to just be a safe space for anyone in the community, a place to go, relax, have fun, education, if they need help with anything,” said Michell Cervantes, executive director.
The center was founded by Reverend Frank Breen in 1926 as an interdenominational church and community center. According to WACC's website, Breen and a group of community leaders held a campaign to raise $35,000.
The center survived after a fire destroyed the original building in 1982 and made it through significant financial challenges and a temporary shutdown during the pandemic in recent years.
“We wouldn't be here without the community. They are our foundation, and we just want to show everybody that we're here to support them,” said Cervantes.
Programs and offerings
Many who attended the block party, held annually, were people who themselves benefit or are close to someone else who benefits from WACC programming. Christi Brooks’ children began going to the WACC through its girls basketball program and open gyms, and one daughter is now ready to begin playing volleyball there.
“Being able to come somewhere where I know my entire family is welcome, from the oldest to the littlest, and I know everybody is safe," said Brooks. "They're playing and interacting with kids they probably may not otherwise have the chance to. So just that is, like, priceless,” said Brooks.
Emily Bell attends senior programming, like the Body Under Construction workout class and sponsored trips.
“It's just a wonderful opportunity to get to know the community, to socialize with other people,” said Bell. “I enjoy hearing the kids sing. I just truly enjoyed it, and just watching the kids interact and have fun.”
In the Willie Brown Leadership Program, 30 kids from Bloomington-Normal school districts engage in enrichment programming, leadership classes and fun and educational field trips. Normal Community High School sophomore Harmonee Taylor and Kingsley Junior High eighth grader Sa’Maria Thames both took part in that program.
“This would be my third year doing the Willie Brown program and being a part of the Western Avenue when they do other things,” said Taylor. “And I know that when I turn 16, I am going to volunteer here to do stuff for the community and also work here because there’s a lot of good people here.”
