The Chicago Park District purchased the Don Nash Community Center, a former YMCA, in 1991. At the time, the surrounding South Shore community suffered from a severe shortage of recreational facilities. The area parks included neither gymnasiums nor swimming pools. The former YMCA offered both a central location in the community and approximately 35,000 square feet of space, nearly twice that of the average modern Chicago park fieldhouse. After purchasing the property, the park district extensively remodeled the building, which had been constructed by the YMCA in the 1940s. Using funds from the Government Assistance Project of the Chicago Community Trust, the park district also developed wide-ranging programming for the site. Today, Don Nash Community Center, with its gymnasium, swimming pool, kitchen, and club rooms, is popular gathering place for South Shore residents. Donald Jordan Nash (1935-1992), for whom the park is named, joined the Coca Cola Company in 1962 as a route helper, rising through the ranks to become the company's first African-American to serve as Vice President of Community and Governmental Affairs. A native Chicagoan, Nash demonstrated a great commitment to children in Chicago Park District programs, volunteering as a mentor and teacher in his spare time.

Located in the South Shore community, Don Nash Community Center totals 1.19 acres and features a gymnasium, fitness center, indoor pool, and multi-purpose rooms. Outside, the park offers a playground. Many of these spaces are available for rental including our gymnasium and multi-purpose rooms.

Park-goers can participate in the Park Kids afterschool program, aquatics, Pilates, yoga, seasonal sports, senior activities, Line Dancing. During the summer, youth can participate in the Chicago Park District’s popular six-week day camp. 

In addition to programs, Don Nash Community Center hosts fun special events throughout the year for the entire family including holiday-themed events.

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