The recreation center in Youngstown's Arlington Heights neighborhood has a new name. It is now called the Richard W. and Eugenia C. Atkinson Recreation Center, honoring the late Richard W. Atkinson, a former board of education president and City Council member, and Eugenia Atkinson, retired director of the Youngstown Metropolitan Housing Authority.
"These are two individuals whose names belong on a building - and especially a building like this," Mayor Jamael Tito Brown said. "Like the late Mr. Atkinson, Mrs. Atkinson has been a lifelong champion of our city and all its residents, particularly the young people who enjoy our parks and recreation centers."
In recognition of this honor, the Atkinson family has established the Richard W. and Eugenia C. Atkinson Fund, marking it as the first grant fund by an African American family in The Youngstown Foundation's 106-year history.
The fund was initiated with a contribution from the family and is open to additional donations. They plan to make annual contributions to support parks, recreation centers, and children's activities.
"The Richard W. and Eugenia C. Atkinson Fund is an exciting new opportunity for thoughtful giving by any individual or organization who shares the family's love for parks," said Lynnette H. Forde, president of The Youngstown Foundation.
Richard Atkinson was deeply involved in community service throughout his life; he served as president of various local organizations including North Side Citizens Coalition and Mahoning/Youngstown Community Action Program among others.
Eugenia Atkinson retired from YMHA in 2007 after over 20 years of service where she led significant projects such as The Homes of Arlington Heights development.
"We want to express our deepest gratitude to the city of Youngstown for renaming the center in recognition of our parents," Najuma and Omari Anderson stated.