The Hamilton County Youth Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free activities and entertainment for the youth of Hamilton County, Nebraska.

Founded in 1994 by Merwyn and Betty Davidson, the Youth Center was originally known as “The Cellar” and located in the old VFW building on 12th Street in Aurora, NE. It quickly became a popular hangout for middle and high school students, offering board games, video games, free food, and other fun activities.

In 2007, the Youth Center moved across the street to a larger facility, adding an outdoor court where students could play basketball, volleyball, and be as loud as they wanted.

The Youth Center temporarily closed in 2020 due to COVID-19 but reopened in 2023 thanks to a group of dedicated adults. With a new vision and rebrand, the center expanded its offerings to include a variety of free summer programs alongside the twice-a-week schedule it has long been known for.

The motto of the Hamilton County Youth Center is “Be Excellent to Each Other.” We believe the world would be a much better place if everyone showed more kindness—regardless of religious, political, or social beliefs. We believe kindness is best taught through actions, not just words, and that the lessons learned in childhood shape who we become as teens and adults.