Transforming Lives: The Revitalized Boys and Girls Club in Arlington

In the heart of East Arlington, a 45-year-old building has undergone a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into the lives of countless children. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County (BGCGTC) have spearheaded a major renovation project, creating a safe, inviting, and enriching space for the community's youth.

Unlocking Potential, One Child at a Time

Revitalizing a Community Cornerstone

The Dan Serna Branch of the BGCGTC, located at 2011 Wynn Terrace, has long been a beacon of hope and opportunity for the children of East Arlington. However, as the building aged and the needs of the community evolved, it became clear that a major overhaul was necessary. The BGCGTC, led by President and CEO Daphne Barlow Stigliano, recognized the importance of providing a safe, modern, and engaging environment for the hundreds of children who pass through its doors each day.The renovation project, which spanned 12 weeks over the summer, was a comprehensive effort to transform the space. Safety improvements were a top priority, ensuring that the club could continue to serve as a sanctuary for the children. But the team also focused on creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, one that would inspire and challenge the young minds who call this place their second home.

Tailored Spaces for Every Age and Interest

The revitalized Dan Serna Branch now boasts dedicated spaces for a wide range of activities and age groups. From art studios to teen lounges, the club has been designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of its members. Stigliano emphasizes the importance of creating age-appropriate environments, recognizing that what appeals to a 6-year-old may not resonate with a 14-year-old."Primary colors can be great, but when you're talking to a 13- or 14-year-old, primary colors don't necessarily do it for them all the time," Stigliano explains. "So we have special spaces just for them." These dedicated teen areas, along with spaces tailored for younger children, ensure that every member of the club feels seen, heard, and empowered to explore their passions.

Fostering Holistic Development

The renovation project goes beyond just physical improvements; it's a testament to the BGCGTC's commitment to nurturing the whole child. The revitalized club now offers a wide range of programming, from art and education to social recreation and community engagement. This multifaceted approach is designed to support the children's intellectual, emotional, and social development, giving them the tools they need to thrive."Ultimately, we want this to be a place that kids love to be at, that this is the place they want to spend their time in the summertime and after school," Stigliano says. "And so to do that, you need to make sure it's a fresh, inviting space that is welcoming to them. And then also, we need to make sure that it has the materials and the equipment that are really kind of challenge them in their learning and in their thinking."

A Community-Driven Transformation

The renovation of the Dan Serna Branch was a collaborative effort, with the City of Arlington, the Ladies Auxiliary of Arlington, and LBL Architects all playing a crucial role. The $600,000 project was a testament to the community's commitment to investing in the well-being and development of its young people."It gives us more capacity. It gives us a space that's been updated. It gives us the opportunity to create that safe place. It gives us an opportunity to create. I think the chance for a kid to be a kid. It gives them the opportunity to think about, you know, who they wanna be," Stigliano reflects.The grand re-opening of the Dan Serna Branch on September 9th marked a new chapter in the club's history, one that promises to unlock the boundless potential of the children it serves. With its revitalized spaces, tailored programming, and unwavering dedication to the community, the BGCGTC is poised to continue its mission of empowering the youth of East Arlington and beyond.