SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The Special Challenges Matching Grant was awarded to South Bend Heritage by the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County. South Bend Heritage will use the $25,000 award to upgrade the Charles Martin Youth Center.

No major improvements have been made to the Center since opening in 1994.

Repair work will begin in the spring of 2020, which includes the installation of a new AV and production system, an overhaul of the parking lot, new doors, accessibility upgrades, and mechanical repairs including plumbing and restrooms.

In a press release, Gladys Muhammad, Director of the Center, said, “We are thankful for this grant from the Community Foundation that will help further the mission of the Charles Martin Youth Center.”

The Center was named after the youth mentor and education advocate Charles E. Martin.

The Center serves as a place within the surrounding neighborhoods where the community can go for special events and gatherings.

The repairs will ensure that the Center remains a safe place for the community, and the upgrades will expand the partnerships, programming and events that uphold Charles Martin’s mission of cultural education and mentorship.