Shuttered School Transformed Into Youth Center On Aurora's East Side

AURORA, IL — Another defunct Aurora school has been revitalized, opening Monday as a new center for community youth.

The former Emmanuel Lutheran School, which has been closed for two decades, was officially unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. Monday.

Now called the Northern Lights Youth Center, the property at 551 Fourth Ave., on Aurora's east side, is owned by the Aurora Housing Authority and its Northern Light Development Corporation.

Serving as a full-service facility for pre-kindergarten through postsecondary students, the Northern Lights Youth Center boasts the following features:

Early childhood initiatives to get children ready for school

• STEM training programs
• Construction trade programs
• Arts programs
• Athletic programs in a full-service gymnasium
• A workout room with new equipment

The Fox Valley Park District, the Quad County Urban League and SPARK Early Learning are among the community partners providing programs and services at the youth center.

Earlier this year, the city reintroduced Todd Elementary School, which closed five years ago, as affordable apartments. A second school, the 15-year-defunct Lincoln Elementary School, will reopen as more affordable apartments next month, according to Chief Engagement Officer Clayton Muhammad.

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