child enrichment programs in Newport, RI

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center has been a hub of activity for nearly 100 years. Founded in 1922 by a group of trustees of the Newport Historical Society, the Center was originally known as the Newport Community Center. In June of 1968, the Center was renamed in honor of Dr. King in order to recognize and honor his legacy. Since its incorporation, the Center has served as a gathering place for people of all communities and cultures. From its original location in the Great Friends Meeting House on the corner of Marlborough and Farewell Streets, the Center has moved to its current home in the former Navy USO building in Newport’s Washington Square neighborhood. For nearly a century, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center has been a source of recreation, connection, and inspiration for people of all backgrounds. The Center was originally established in 1922 as the Newport Community Center, and provided recreational activities for the town’s residents. The founders, a group of trustees of the Newport Historical Society, wanted to breathe new life into the Great Friends Meeting House, while honoring the legacy of its founders. In June of 1968, the Center was renamed in honor of Dr. King, and the Center moved to the former Navy USO building in Newport’s Washington Square neighborhood. Since then, the Center has been a place of connection and celebration for people from all walks of life.

Are you looking for a great way to support the work of Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island (OHPRI)? Our annual membership program is an easy and exciting way for you to stay connected to the organization and take advantage of special programming and rewards. With our commitment to providing a creative learning experience, even when students can't join us on our ship in person, you can still benefit from our empowering education programs at sea and ashore. With these programs, OHPRI is dedicated to raising awareness of opportunities in the maritime industry, marine trades, and defense sector for the communities of Rhode Island and Southern New England. Sign up today and become a member of OHPRI!