The Beginning: The Media Youth Center was founded in 1943. The organization started in response to a Halloween prank. Media Police Chief Malcolm Laughhead coordinated the group. The idea was to provide activities for young men in Media. From 1943 thru 1946 the group operated unofficially. But, in 1946, the group became incorporated and affiliated with the Boys Clubs of America. For the first 10 years, the Youth Center operated at various sites in Media.

Location: The Media Youth Center is located on Youth Way. Youth Way is just north of the intersection of 6th and Monroe Sts. The building was dedicated in 1954 and extensively renovated in 1990. Currently, in addition to its own programs, the Media Youth Center houses the Ethel Mason Day Care Center.

Programs: At the core of the Media Youth Center’s programming is the popular Media Hoops winter basketball program, which serves boys and girls in 2nd-8th grades. Currently, Media Hoops has over 950 youth participants and close to 90 adult volunteers. In addition to winter basketball, a summer camp is offered to local youth and teens.

Community Usage: The Media Youth Center makes itself available to various community organizations whenever possible. Local organizations that currently make use of the facility include the following: Rose Tree Soccer, Rose Tree Colts football, Nativity BVM CYO volleyball, Media Recreation, Media Babe Ruth, Optimist Lacrosse, Women Against Rape, Media-Providence Friends School, Media Presbyterian Church, and Walden School.

Looking Forward: In 2004, the Media Youth Center building had its 50th anniversary. To continue its long tradition of providing activities for the young people of Media and its surrounding communities, the Youth Center will offer a more diverse menu of programs to fully meet the needs of its participants. As always, we remain open to any programming that serves the need of the young people of our community.