$40 million needed for upgrades and renovations at southwest Fresno community center

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A southwest Fresno assemblage halfway is the absorption of a fundraiser to rebuild aft it's been closed for a year.

For implicit 55 years, the Cecil C. Hinton Center successful Southwest Fresno was a harmless haven for young teenagers and seniors.

It was besides a spot wherever respective families hosted peculiar celebrations.

"We've had babe showers to day parties, retirements, quinceaneras; you sanction it," said Debbie Darden, president of the center.

Memories Darden and Bob Mitchell accidental they retrieve each excessively well.

"There person been galore of america who resided successful West Fresno who participated successful activities successful the halfway since opening. The parents who allowed america to travel knew it was a harmless spot for the children," said Mitchell.

But successful 2023, the doors of the halfway closed.

A determination Darden says was heartbreaking but necessary.

"The walls are starting to peel. Our rooftop is connected the verge of collapsing," Darden explained.

Since then, Darden says the Hinton Center's precedence is to rise the $40 cardinal indispensable to bring it backmost to life.

"We are looking guardant to that and to bring immoderate activities that you spot crossed municipality that our kids cannot get to," said Darden.

She says it's taking a colony and appreciates everyone's support, including the bureau of councilmember Miguel Arias, who contributed $500,000.

"We person the archetypal signifier taken disconnected with the EPA, that is simply a blessing, and portion that happens, we are continuing to scope retired for other dollars," Darden said.

The caller Fresno City assemblage field is crossed the thoroughfare from the Hinton Center, and Darden says she is excited astir the caller opportunities successful Southwest Fresno.

For quality updates, travel Elisa Navarro connected Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.