Written by: Jordan Baker

Published: October 13, 2025, 7:32 PM CDT

Updated: October 13, 2025, 7:32 PM CDT

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — On Monday, the spotlight was on the local community as residents came together to celebrate a significant new addition—a basketball court at a Decatur community center.

For over two decades, the Old King’s Orchard Community Center has been a beacon of hope for troubled youth. Devon Joyner, the group’s director, expressed his aspiration for the new court to become a sanctuary for the neighborhood.

“It’s community development at its best and doing everything we can to make this community a better place,” Joyner said. 

The students of the center’s program were honored with cutting the ribbon. The community center heavily focuses on reducing violent crime in the area.

The ribbon cutting included activities for children of all ages. There were three-point shooting activities and horse contests. Kids also enjoyed two bounce houses and face painting with music and food.

A day of success — leaving Joyner optimistic that other organizations will follow through too. 

“There are enough agencies out here that if we collaborated, we could meet more people where they are at,” Joyner said.