A $1 million renovation of one of Grand Rapids' best-kept secrets has transformed the place into a virtually brand new 29,000-square-foot hub for children. Through a partnership between the
City of Grand Rapids and the
Boys and Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth, the Paul I. Phillips Recreation Center (726 Madison Ave. SE) becomes the newest center for health, education and leadership development for the city's children ages 8 to 18.
The Paul I. Phillips Recreation Center, which has been unused since 2009, features an expansive gymnasium where basketball games, scooter races and volleyball matches will be just a part of a balanced menu of children's activities from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weekdays.
The renovation includes the creation of a new computer and learning center, an arts and crafts room, classrooms, restrooms, an administrative office and second-level game rooms overlooking the gymnasium, says executive director Rick Huisman.
"We look at the club as a gift where kids can have fun as they learn and make new friends," Huisman says. "Whether they're looking to get help with school work, play video games or play in the gym, they are nurtured as they become our future leaders. There will be structured classes in the gymnasium, in the classrooms, and arts and crafts, but we also want them to have time to do what they want to do and hang with their friends."
The center is open to any Grand Rapids child ages 8 to 18 for $5 a year. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mon. - Fri., beginning Monday, June 11. Beginning June 18, children will receive a lunch and a snack daily, which is included in the membership price.
The center is the Boys and Girls Clubs' third facility in the city. Club leaders and city dignitaries were on hand for a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tues., June 5.
Source: Rick Huisman, Boys and Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth
Writer: Deborah Johnson Wood, Development News Editor
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