The original idea for the Richland Area Community Center was sparked by a 1991 study by a Western Michigan University graduate student in public administration, done at the request of Richland Village President Jack Gray. That report indicated the area’s need for a gathering place for adults and youth. 

Later, an asset-building study at Gull Lake Community Schools concluded that the youth felt displaced and undervalued in the community.  This spurred a few concerned citizens to investigate the possibility of creating an inclusive, relationship-building gathering place for youth and adults, a facility that would support the effort to build a healthier community. 

In 2001, through the generosity of an anonymous donor, the creation of the (then called) Hope Full Community Center was set in motion. Click here to read the complete history of RACC.