The 110,000 sq. ft. South Bend Kroc Center redefines what a community center is all about. This unprecedented place of gathering and enrichment houses an array of education, sports, faith, arts, and supportive programs to deliver a world-class experience. The programs, as well as the building itself, have been designed to stimulate the mind, body, and spirit, to provide hope, and to transform the life of each and every member of the community.
The Kroc Center is comprised of four major components: a center of worship and performance venue, an aquatics center, a fitness, and recreation center, and special event facilities.
Development of The Kroc Center was made possible by a $70 million combined capital and endowment grant from a bequest to The Salvation Army by the late Mrs. Joan Kroc, widow of McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc. As a condition of the significant Kroc grant, the community also raised $10 million locally, representing a total community investment of nearly $80 million.
Construction of The South Bend Kroc Center began in May 2010 and the facility opened in January 2012.