05/27/2026
In May 2006, Gary Comer Youth Center (GCYC) opened its doors, expanding possibilities for a new generation through education and after-school enrichment programming. Twenty years on, GCYC has surpassed its original vision, helping 14,000 young people unlock their potential, develop their talents, strengthen their community and build brighter futures.
Be part of the collective action that sustains programming another 20 years by making a recurring gift of $20 or more. Support here: https://www.garycomeryouthcenter.org/donate
A recap of what we’ve built together:
✨ THE SPARK BEGINS
1998: It started when Mr. Gary Comer returned to his childhood school, Paul Revere Elementary, in 1998. Seeing the challenges faced by students in the neighborhood he once called home, he felt compelled to act - not from a distance, but as a neighbor.
❤️ A VISION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
2006: Gary dreamed of a space where young people could learn, create, and explore what’s possible. In 2006, that dream became the Gary Comer Youth Center - a place intentionally designed to reflect one core belief: youth potential is limitless when a community invests in it.
🌱 A CAMPUS TAKES ROOT: what began as one building quickly grew into an educational ecosystem.
2008: Gary Comer College Prep opened its doors.
2010: A 1.75-acre Youth Education Garden transformed an industrial corridor into a living classroom.
2011: A public library branch and community health clinic joined the campus.
2012: The first GCCP seniors graduated with 100% college acceptance.
💪 INNOVATION FOR THE COMMUNITY: as needs evolved so did the campus.
2015: UtmostU launched to support students through college.
2019: A new athletic field expanded opportunities for sports & recreation.
2020: During COVID-19, GCYC delivered meals, produce, virtual learning, counseling, and essential support - keeping families connected and cared for.
Today, young people learn, grow, and discover themselves in: an 80,000 sq. ft. youth center, a rooftop garden and 1.75-acre urban farm, dance and visual arts studio, a state-of-the-art culinary center, technology labs, athletics facilities, and spaces built for belonging. The legacy continues ✨
