Commonpoint opens its first Community Center in the Bronx
Bronx, NY – After operating youth workforce services in the borough for the last two years, Human Services organization Commonpoint has opened up its first community center in the Bronx.
Along with elected officials and community leaders, Commonpoint celebrated the opening of the Bronx Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, February 27th, 2025, at 10 am.
Located at the former Joel E. Smilow Clubhouse (1665 Hoe Avenue), formerly operated by the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club, Commonpoint is expanding its Bronx programming with services rooted in education, socialization, workforce services, and health and wellness. In addition to partnering with the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) to offer HSE and GED programs, as well as job training and certification in the medical field for people ages 18-24, Commonpoint has expanded its offering to include ESOL classes, exercise classes for adults and older adults, after school programs (also in partnership with DYCD), and sports classes for youth. They have also re-opened the indoor pool that had been dormant for over five years, and will offer a full range of aquatics programs and membership options to include access to the pool, gymnasium, fitness center, and exercise classes.
“Commonpoint’s excellent services have led to us building relationships and growing a reputation as one of the strongest non-profits and resource hubs in all of our city,” said Commonpoint Board Chair Lee Perlman. “This made us the top choice, and we are truly honored to serve the neighborhoods surrounding this beloved community center in the heart of the borough.”
“Commonpoint will serve as a vital cornerstone of our community, providing essential services that meet the needs of residents and families across our borough. The 37,000-square-foot facility, which now occupies the space once held by the Madison Boys and Girls Club, is helping bridge the gap left by the closure of that recreational space. With a wide array of programs, including afterschool services, workforce training, health and wellness initiatives, mental health support, and more, Commonpoint will play an integral role in providing our residents with the tools to be successful. We are proud to have this resource in the Bronx, and I am committed to continuing to support initiatives like this that strengthen our neighborhoods and provide opportunities for all.” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.
“With the unexpected closure of the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club, a gaping hole was left in my community,” said Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr. “Experiencing firsthand how unfairly the Bronx has historically been underfunded in the recreational space — highlighted further by the Club’s closure — I knew I couldn’t hesitate to find an immediate replacement to help my constituents. Following months of discussions, I became confident in Commonpoint’s ability to fill this void, and am thrilled about the opening of its new center in the Bronx! In addition to receiving access to essential services, Bronxites will now have a dedicated place for activities like swim lessons, GED and ESOL classes, and youth sports opportunities. Knowing the significance this center will bring to our Borough, I was proud to allocate $1,244,000 towards its development and pledge to continue to serve as a staunch supporter of its programming.”
“In a borough that has faced systemic disparities for far too long, the Commonpoint Bronx Center represents a major step forward in our relentless pursuit of equity. While this center alone cannot remedy all the challenges our community encounters, it stands as a crucial resource in providing our families with the fair and equitable support they need and deserve,” said New York State Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda. “This center is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together to uplift and support one another, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for the Bronx.”
“Commonpoint’s new community center in the Bronx marks a chapter of growth and opportunity, where education, health, and wellness unite youth and adults,” said Assembly Member Chantel Jackson, LMSW. “With a commitment to empowerment and a wealth of new resources, this space is a beacon for progress and connection in the district.”
“In my youth, I played basketball at the Madison Square Boys & Girls Club. I am so excited that Commonpoint has purchased the property and will continue to support youth and the community. Mayor Adams’ mission is crystal clear: help Bronx residents thrive by making New York City the greatest city to raise a family,” said NYC Department of Youth and Community Development Commissioner (DYCD) Keith Howard. “DYCD will continue to do our part by working with Commonpoint, and expanding investments in jobs, community programs, and sports.”
“I’m incredibly proud of the work that we’ve done in the Opportunity Youth space, helping set up young people for educational and career success in the Bronx,” said Commonpoint CEO Danielle Ellman. “This expansion is an exciting moment for our organization and we look forward to supporting the community with the engaging and effective supportive services that will help our neighbors thrive.”
To learn more about the Commonpoint Bronx Center, you can visit www.commonpoint.org/bronx.
