July 26, 2023 - Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation marked the 75th Anniversary of the Jennings Recreation Center at a press conference today with Mayor Tom Henry, Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel, Jennings Center Advisory Board Member Rev. Willie Gilbert, neighbors and public officials. Youth presented Mayor Henry with a special card to show their appreciation for the free programming available for kids throughout the year.
The center officially opened in the summer of 1948 as the McCulloch Recreation Center and was renamed in 1992 after longtime director Albert George Jennings. The center is known for being a safe haven and meeting location for kids and families and for hosting many special programs including a youth scholarship, basketball leagues for all ages and an annual Wassail holiday event.
“Since its beginning in 1948, the Jennings Recreation Center has provided a strong sense of community to neighbors of all ages in East Central Fort Wayne” said Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel. He continued, “with its strong emphasis on education, belonging and team sports, Jennings Recreation Center has positively impacted many people over those 75 years.”
“The Jennings Recreation Center is a wonderful example of excellent programming for our city residents. The combination of the dedicated advisory board, other volunteers and the city employees—especially those who work behind the scenes is an integral part of the center’s success, and I thank you.” said Mayor Henry.
The festivities will continue with a special carnival-themed open house planned for this evening, July 26, from 5:30 -7:30 p.m. at 1330 McCulloch Street. It will feature tours of the facility, food and refreshments (while supplies last), games, horse-drawn wagon rides, animals, plus face painting and a bounce house for children.
Jennings Recreation Center is accepting registrations for the 2023-2024 after school program. Find the registration form at www.FortWayneParks.org.