The Ukiah Valley Cultural and Recreational Center (UVCRC) is a community center where youth and families in the greater Ukiah area will find opportunities to grow, have fun, and strengthen their community. Partners include County of Mendocino, City of Ukiah, Ukiah Unified School District, the Boys and Girls Club, local businesses, community-based organizations, and community members.

UVCRC began as a dream six years ago, with the recognition of the need for a facility that could provide resources and recreational opportunities for local youth and their families. This dream is the driving force behind the growth and development of UVCRC. Mendocino County youth, in line with nationwide trends, are living more sedentary lifestyles and are suffering the consequences. Youth violence and substance abuse have both been identified locally as serious health problems. These problems are exacerbated when children and youth do not have safe open space in which to play and exercise.

In 2003, the Ukiah Unified School District (UUSD) will open the Grace Hudson Elementary School on the southern border of the City of Ukiah. The UVCRC to open its doors the following spring. This unique collaborative relationship will assist the school to develop closer relationships with the community, while giving UVCRC ready access to neighborhood children and youth. UUSD will ensure that the Center and its programs are available to children and youth in the larger community by scheduling school busses from all area schools to make after school bus stops.

To make a donation, please call Richard Shoemaker at (707) 462-8562 or email him at richard_uvcrc@sbcglobal.net, or download our pledge form (pdf) and mail it in.