What started with a doctor’s wife, a few motivated citizens, and a vision to support local Black youths is now an invaluable facility that provides a wide variety of services to the entire community. Hattie Louise Neblett did not let humble beginnings and limited resources deter her from a dream of providing a safe haven and programs to decrease juvenile delinquency in the community. Now known as the H.L. Neblett Community Center, it brings to life what Mrs. Neblett envisioned almost 90 years ago.

In 1936, in Owensboro, Kentucky, the Community Recreation Council was formed. Several citizens, led by elected president, Mrs. Hattie L. Neblett, met in various churches and schools to plan a diverse set of activities for the youth community. The goal was to improve their physical, cultural, educational, and moral welfare. Thanks to donated funds of $3,200 in 1942, the Council purchased its first building. In 1975, the Mayor and Community Development Committee voted to contribute $225,000 to renovate the building over a two-year period, making it compliant with state codes and providing a safe venue for all youth activities. The persistent commitment and work of Mrs. Neblett and the Owensboro community resulted in the Jane Addams Medal being awarded to the community center in 1978, beating out similar programs from over 30 states. A year later, to commemorate the vision, dedication and leadership of Mrs. Neblett, the facility was renamed the H. L. Neblett Community Center.

As the Center expanded to serve the community at large, it broke ground in 2005 on a federally funded $2.98 million, 24,000 square foot complex which includes a computer lab, game room, gym, health and fitness room, and kitchen. Multiple programs are offered for children older than six weeks up to senior citizens, including:

• Trib Ball “Free to Learn” Childcare center  
• Western Academy at The Neblett  
• After-School Enrichment Program
• Evening Recreation Program
• Food Nutrition Program
• Mature Adult Program

For more than two decades, Atmos Energy has partnered with the Neblett Community Center to nurture bright minds and healthy futures. In 2022, Atmos Energy and the Daviess County Public Library held a rededication for the Center’s Addie Talbot Memorial Library. Through the company’s Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities program, Atmos Energy provided $13,000 for 247 new books and $25,000 for new furniture, paint, and carpeting.

“Not only will this library serve our children for years to come, but this project will be a launching pad for other local organizations to partner with the H.L. Neblett Community Center,” said Executive Director Keith Cottoner. “We are thankful for Atmos Energy and its commitment to improving the lives of children within the community.”

The H.L. Neblett Community Center’s childcare and afterschool program serves around 100 children each year. The Center teaches kids fundamental life and literacy skills and enhances the lives of all ages by educating locals on fitness, nutrition and building fellowship. The United Way, grants, fundraisers, state funds and donations help keep the Center operating in full.

To support the H.L. Neblett Community Center and ensure Mrs. Neblett’s dream lives on, visit https://hlneblett.org/donate