About Carver
Ourstory
Since 1947, Carver Community Center has been a home for Kokomo — a place where every child and family can learn, play, and grow.
Carver Community Center has served the Kokomo community since 1947.
Who we are
A home forKokomo
Carver Community Center, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the Kokomo community by providing educational, recreational, and cultural programs for youth and adults. Since its founding, Carver has been a hub for learning, sports, and the arts — a safe space where people of all ages can connect, grow, and thrive.
Through programs like tutoring, basketball, boxing, art, music, pickleball, and community events, Carver continues to empower individuals and strengthen families. Our mission is to honor our legacy while evolving to meet the needs of today’s community, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn, play, and succeed.
Named with the consent of Dr. George Washington Carver.
Carver history
Founded in1947
Carver Community Center was founded in 1947 in response to the lack of recreational facilities for African-American youth in Howard County. Named after the renowned scientist and educator George Washington Carver, the center quickly became a pillar of support, education, and cultural enrichment for the entire Kokomo community.
Over the decades, Carver has expanded to serve thousands of youth and adults of all races and backgrounds, offering programs in education, athletics, music, and wellness. While times have changed, our commitment to uplifting and empowering the community remains the same.
Today, Carver Community Center stands as a beacon of opportunity, fostering growth, leadership, and togetherness for generations to come.
Our legacy
Nearly 80 years ofcommunity
Dunbar Center Opens
The Paul Laurence Dunbar Memorial Community Center opens at 1000 N. Lafountaine Street to serve northeast Kokomo youth.
A Vision Takes Shape
Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s visit to Douglass School, Rev. H.A. Perry launches a communitywide fundraising effort for a permanent center.
Carver is Founded
Carver Community Center is founded by Rev. Henry A. Perry, Sr., named with the consent of Dr. George Washington Carver.
Doors Open
Carver Community Center is dedicated on June 15, 1948, after more than $60,000 is raised to make the dream a reality.
A Beacon of Opportunity
Carver serves thousands of youth and adults of all backgrounds through education, athletics, arts, and community — carrying the legacy forward.
Our mission
Learn, play,succeed
“Carver Community Center serves our community’s children and families through programs and experiences that foster character-building, respect, and healthy living.”
Carver is committed to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building a thriving community through education, recreation, and the arts. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where people of all ages can learn, grow, and connect.
By providing quality programs in academics, athletics, and cultural enrichment, we honor our legacy while adapting to meet the evolving needs of our community. Our mission is to inspire personal growth, foster leadership, and promote lifelong success for generations to come.
Opportunity starts here
Your place atCarver
Explore programs, get involved, or give back — help us keep opportunity alive for the next generation.