A dream, a vision that was brought to fruition 10 years ago will be celebrated in Escalon in early August.

It’s the 10th anniversary of the Escalon Youth Center, and the driving force behind the project a decade ago was the late Jim Davis, who was pastor of Trinity Church in Escalon at the time.

The former Escalon Motel – which had fallen into disrepair – at the corner of Yosemite and Escalon avenues was mostly torn down to make way for the new Youth Center.

Davis, who passed away in September of 2018 from brain cancer, had the vision to utilize the motel site for a youth center in 2013, nearly three years before the project was completed and a grand opening staged.

Along the way, the members of Trinity Church voted to purchase the property – after Pastor Davis received an offer to take ownership – and the project was to be an outreach, a ministry of the church.

From property purchase to demolition of existing buildings, construction of new ones, all the pieces put in place, the formal grand opening was celebrated on Aug. 13, 2016.

The 10-year anniversary will be a festive event, with water games, music, some opportunity drawings, with Kona Ice and a taco truck on site as well.

The observance is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Longtime volunteer Debbie Murken said they also anticipate some remarks from Pastor Arney Corbin of Trinity Church – who was youth pastor at Trinity at the time of the grand opening – and Brenda Davis, wife of the late Jim Davis.

The idea behind the anniversary gathering is to give thanks for those that brought the Youth Center to life and honoring those who help keep the doors open.

At 1328 Escalon Ave., the Youth Center is open during the school year, Monday through Friday, roughly 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“I volunteer there one day a week and the kids are so respectful,” Murken said, adding that it seems as though they enjoy having a specific place to go.

High school students from EHS – just across the street – can buy lunch there, as well as enjoy games and activities at lunch and after school. El Portal students utilizing the Youth Center arrive at the end of the school day.

There is no cost to get in or use the various games and equipment; the only cost is for snacks and beverages purchased.

There are areas for playing video games, pool, a ping pong table, bistro-style tables for sitting to eat or for doing homework, an outdoor basketball hoop and more.

“We have some high school kids help us during lunch,” Murken added of the school year, when it does get busy at the Youth Center snack bar. “It’s just a fun place to hang out.”

Escalon Youth Center Director is Madison Lovins and Murken said they are always looking for more volunteers to help staff the center. Those interested in learning more can call the center at 209-691-8191.

All in the community are encouraged to attend the Saturday, Aug. 8 anniversary celebration.