Ruby Payne Cook was the first Executive Director of the Crispus Attucks Community Center, serving in this position for nearly 30 years from 1929 until her retirement in 1959. Known as a pioneer in social service work, Cook directed the programming and recreational activities held by the Crispus Attucks Center through support from volunteers and the community at large. During her time as the Executive Director, Cook introduced programs that celebrated African American heritage, introduced daycare facilities at a time when segregation made finding a daycare difficult, and provided social services.

In addition to serving as Executive Director at Crispus Attucks, Cook also served on the Board of Directors of the Mental Hygiene Association, the YWCA, the Lancaster Day Nursery, and the Advisory Board Committee of the Family and Children's Service. Quoted as a believer in "people power," Cook believed that the value of service contributed by all parts of the community surpassed any dollar amount. In 1965, she was awarded the Distinguished Citizen's Award by the Venture Club.

Formally named the Crispus Attucks Community Center in 1929, the center's name honored African American history through an African American man named Crispus Attucks who was killed at the Boston Massacre in 1770. Since its inception, the Crispus Attucks Center became a social hub for Lancaster's Black community, promoting the interests of the community socially, economically, and politically through services that supported community prosperity, physical and mental health awarness, programs, and cultural events.

Today, the Crispus Attucks Center continues to serve Lancaster and the surrounding area through programs and resources that help children, families, and community members thrive and prosper. Current programs include the African American Historical Society of South Central Pennsylvania, the Crispus Attucks Food Bank, the Crispus Attucks Cafe, the Attucks Academy Elite Program, and the Young Professionals of Color (YPOC).