The Willis Moore Youth Center was originally built as a shelter in 1926 to accommodate the upkeep of Hoyt Field.  Called “The Mission” by the locals who used adjacent Hoyt Field, it was renamed in honor of
two-year old Willis David Moore, who was struck by a car in a fatal accident on Western Avenue in 1968.  A plaque in his memory with his photo greets visitors at the entrance and reads “Love sat beside him, and in his ear wisdom waited to speak.” 

The Center now services youth in grades 5-7 with vibrant programing and a staff that includes 74-year old Ron Harris who has, in several capacities, been a mentor to the children for over 30 years.