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CKF Addiction Treatment Center is proud to announce that the historic Paul Laurence Dunbar School building that was purchased in 2023, located at 509 E. Elm Street, has been officially approved and listed on the State of Kansas Register of Historic Places. The designation came after a unanimous vote from the Kansas Historical Society’s Board of Review on February 1, 2025. The building is also currently being considered for designation on the National Register of Historic Places.
Built in 1922, Dunbar School was more than an educational institution; it was a gathering place for civic and social activities, hosting Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the Parent Teacher Organization, and various church and YWCA programs. Though it closed in 1956 following desegregation, its legacy has remained alive through the passionate efforts of alumni and community advocates dedicated to its preservation. One of CKF’s closest advocates for this tremendous accomplishment was the school’s alumni-established nonprofit organization, the Dunbar School Alumni Association, Inc.
The Alumni Association and CKF Addiction Treatment have led the effort to secure both state and national designation. CKF is spearheading the restoration of Dunbar as the Pathfinder Community Center, a safe space for individuals seeking recovery and a resource hub for marginalized communities. CKF Addiction Treatment will continue to collaborate with the Alumni Association to intertwine the school’s rich history of community commitment with the community center theme to inspire and encourage a path to success for those seeking comfort at the center.
“Dunbar's history is deeply woven into the fabric of this community, and securing this designation is more than just a recognition, it's a promise that its legacy will live on," said Jessica Eckels, COO of CKF Addiction Treatment. "For me, this is about honoring the stories of those who came before us and ensuring that future generations see Dunbar not just as a building, but as a symbol of resilience and hope. This is a huge step forward, and I couldn't be prouder to be part of it."
Kirk L. Holt, President and Chief Executive of the Dunbar School Alumni Association, emphasized the importance of this milestone.
“The historical significance of the Dunbar School has now found its rightful place as part of Kansas’ rich history. We see this designation as confirmation that the Dunbar School legacy offers value in its story and is worth sharing and preserving for generations to come. The Alumni Association is so grateful for its strong relationship with CKF Addiction Treatment during this process for achieving such a significant accomplishment. It represents how the collaboration of two organizations with similar core values can make a difference within the communities they serve!”
With state designation secured, the nomination for national historic recognition will now be reviewed by the National Register of Historic Places. If approved, Dunbar School will receive federal recognition, opening doors for preservation funding and expanded community revitalization efforts.
For more information about CKF Addiction Treatment Center and its programs, please visit www.ckfaddictiontreatment.org.
For more information about the Dunbar School Alumni Association and its college scholarship program, please visit www.dunbarschoolsalina.com .