Jan. 21, 2025 / The Lost River community gathered on Sunday, Jan. 19 to celebrate the grand opening of the Lost River Community Center, a 13,500-square-foot facility featuring a gymnasium, full kitchen, technology and robotics rooms, an art classroom, and a fitness center. Click HERE for photos.
Ribbons were cut at several doorways following celebratory speeches by Amie McAuliffe and Georgia O’Brien, who led the fundraising and construction efforts with the Lost River Booster Club, and Jana Dunlea, principal of Lost River Junior/Senior High School. Dunlea explained how community members can access the center’s fitness area and other resources.
A dessert reception, door prizes, and building tours followed the opening ceremony.
During the school day the building functions as an extension of the high school, providing space for robotics and elective classes, including music and art. After school hours and when school is not in session, the building is open to the wider community. The fitness center is open to the public before school and after school into the evening. Community members wishing to use the fitness center must visit the Lost River school office during school hours to fill out a form.
Construction of the center began in the summer of 2023 following a successful fundraising campaign by the Lost River Boosters Club that raised over $2.8 million, providing the funds necessary to begin construction while fundraising continued. The total project cost, which includes furnishings and equipment, was approximately $3.7 million. Funds came from private donations, grants, and $800,000 in federal ESSER funds from the Klamath County School District. The multi-purpose building will be owned and maintained by the school district to ensure its sustainability.
The new center is located on the Lost River Junior/Senior High School campus, adjacent to the track and football field.
The mission of the Lost River Community Center is: “To serve our diverse rural population by encouraging health and wellness, providing educational opportunities, and establishing a foundation that not only enhances the quality of life but also promotes personal growth for all ages.”
For more information, contact LRCC Director Amie McAuliffe at lostrivercommunitycenter@gmail.com. Organizers are still raising funds to purchase items needed for the kitchen, arts classroom, and technology room. Visit their website at lostrivercommunitycenter.com for more details.
