Galena ARC

At the Galena Art & Recreation Center, we believe in the power of community. For over 50 years, we have been dedicated to promoting individual independence and cooperation through our diverse range of programs and activities. Our mission is to develop community cooperation in arts, crafts, sports, and recreation for all ages, creating a friendly, respectful social environment based on self-esteem, discipline, fairness, equality, and responsibility.

Our journey began in 1965, when Robert Buehler, Robert Roth, and Robert Murphy identified a void in the lives of local children who had nothing to do outside of school. They created the Team Center Program, which was based on the principle that every boy who was present at games had the opportunity to participate. This organization was patterned on the Neighborhood Boys Club of Chicago that Mr. Buehler had founded in 1929. Later in that first year, the Team Center expanded and included the Galena Girls Recreation program, operating under the same principles as the boys' program. In the first year, the programs served 171 boys and 150 girls.

In the late 1960s, the Team Center merged with the budding Art & Recreation Center, which was located on Main Street in Galena. The Galena Art & Recreation Center was then founded and funded by Mr. Buehler, the B & B Foundation (a Buehler family foundation dedicated to youth assistance programs), and special contributions. The goal of the Art & Recreation Center was to serve the community members of all ages.

In 1969, the Art & Recreation Center moved from Main Street to its current location, the former St. Michael's School built in 1886, at 413 South Bench Street with the aid of a forgivable and forgiven interest-free loan from Mr. Buehler. In October of 1970, voters defeated a special tax levy to fund a part of the Center's operations. For the next four years, only the summer sports program was continued, and the building was held on a minimum maintenance basis. Mr. Buehler continued to cover the expenses for both the programs and the maintenance.

In 1974, a bequest from benefactors Helen Boevers Brown and Ray Brown created the opportunity for the Art & Recreation Center building to be reopened. With Art & Recreation Center funds and a matching government grant, the exterior brick was renovated, new windows were installed, a new roof was put on, and part of the playground was improved. A Director was hired and interest level in the Art & Recreation Center was at peak in its history.

By 1990, the Art & Recreation Center board members were faced with a continuing erosion of capital, costly new governmental property occupancy rules, and the recognition that programs were no longer self-supporting. At that point in time, it appeared that the building would have to be closed and programs terminated. A strong community fundraising effort matched 50% by Mr. Buehler removed that threat and enabled continuing renovation.

Believe in Us

We know the path we have traveled and are sure of where we've been. Together we will proceed forward and join forces to meet the ever-changing needs for the future generation. New ARC, New ARC1/20.

Our Services

The Galena Art & Recreation Center offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages. Our services include:

• Art Programs: We provide a range of art programs, including pottery, painting, drawing, and more. Our experienced instructors guide participants through various techniques and styles, helping them develop their artistic skills and express their creativity.

• Sports + Fitness Programs: We offer a variety of sports and fitness programs for both adults and children. These include sports leagues, fitness classes, and recreational activities that promote physical activity, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles.

• Childcare + Preschool Programs: Our childcare and preschool programs are designed to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. Our experienced staff offers a range of activities and educational experiences that help children develop their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills.

• For the Community: We believe in the importance of community and offer a range of programs and events that bring people together. These include seasonal festivals, cultural events, and community gatherings that foster a sense of belonging and connection among our members.

Our commitment to serving the community is unwavering, and we continue to evolve and adapt our services to meet the changing needs of our members. Whether you're looking for artistic expression, physical activity, educational experiences, or community connection, the Galena Art & Recreation Center is here to support you every step of the way.