Contact Information:
109 Jackson Street Lynchburg, VA 24504
Phone: (434) 485-8301

Located in Lynchburg’s historic Tinbridge neighborhood near the Fifth Street Business District and the Blackwater Creek Trail, Yoder Center is a vibrant neighborhood hub where youth, adults, and families come together for recreation, learning, and community connection. Following a recent restoration, this welcoming center continues its long tradition of serving residents of all ages.

Established in 1964, Yoder Center is Lynchburg’s oldest neighborhood center. The building was constructed on the former site of a school and was named in honor of Jacob Yoder, the school’s principal. A unique piece of the center’s history remains today—the main room at Yoder Center was once the school’s cafeteria.

In 2011, the dedication of Aubrey Barbour Park brought exciting improvements to the area, including new playground equipment, updated landscaping, a picnic pavilion, a resurfaced basketball court, and ADA-accessible sidewalks and walkways.

Today, Yoder Center offers a variety of programs and activities designed to bring the community together, including after-school programs, summer camp, teen activities, senior programs, and community gatherings. Visitors can stop by the center to pick up a monthly activity calendar or check the Programs and Activities page for upcoming opportunities.

Center Amenities
  • Small playground
  • Basketball court
  • Picnic pavilion
  • Grill and picnic tables
  • Community garden and raised bed gardens
  • Pool tables
  • Ping pong table
  • Foosball table
  • Piano
  • Computer lab
  • Non-circulating library
  • Kitchen
  • Restrooms
  • Meeting spaces
  • Arts and crafts room
  • Game closet
  • Tables and folding chairs

 

Programs and Activities

Yoder Center provides programs and activities for all ages, including:

  • Learn & Play – Educational and recreational activities for young children
  • Pre-School Playgroup – A fun environment for young children and families to connect
  • After-School Program – A safe and engaging space for youth ages 5–17 featuring snacks, meals when available, arts and crafts, games, technology, and recreation activities. The program typically serves 15–16 youth each day from 2:30–6:00 p.m.
  • Summer at the Center – A summer program filled with activities, friendships, and fun
  • Senior Recreation Shuffle – Weekly opportunities for older adults to socialize, participate in activities, enjoy guest speakers, and take occasional trips

 

Community Connections

Yoder Center serves as a gathering place for the surrounding neighborhood and offers opportunities for residents to connect through:

  • Senior programs, including quilting groups, guest speakers, and special activities
  • Community meetings and events
  • Partnerships with local organizations, including food pantry services through Parkview Community Mission and the local food bank
  • Visits from Liberty University students who engage with youth through recreation and mentoring opportunities
  • Community gardening opportunities

 

Rental Information

Yoder Center is available for community rentals and gatherings. The recommended event capacity is 50 people, and parking is available onsite.

Whether you’re looking for a place to participate in a program, connect with neighbors, or host a gathering, Yoder Center continues to be a welcoming space where the Lynchburg community can learn, play, and grow together.