Elk City, OK – Just days after announcing the Lincoln Teen Center would close its doors permanently, longtime director Chuck Hargrove says there’s renewed hope for reopening.

In a new Facebook post, Hargrove said efforts to reinstate the center’s liability insurance have made progress and that plans are underway to reopen within a few months. “Later this week I will post a list of needs, needed to get the Center open,” he wrote. “At that time I will thank the ones who have helped to get our insurance coverage re-instated. November 12 is a critical date! Pray God’s will over that date please!”

The Lincoln Teen Center, located in the former Lincoln School building at 1400 South Franklin, has served as a safe, free hangout for Elk City youth for more than 25 years. Hargrove, who founded the center in 1999, announced its closure last week after the facility’s insurer canceled coverage due to the age of its electrical system.

Now, with the possibility of reopening, Hargrove expressed gratitude to supporters who have continued to give and encouraged donations for the coming year’s budget. “The people who have graciously given every year, we will accept your gift for next year’s budget—2026,” he said.

Donations to help the center reopen can be dropped off at Jerry’s Glass, Western Animal Hospital, First National Bank, and McArthur Family Clinic.

“I love my town,” Hargrove added. “Elk City is one of a kind.”

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