FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.— The streets of downtown Fort Lauderdale witnessed a new beacon of hope for its youth on Thursday, with the official launch of the Fred DeLuca Teen Center by the Boys & Girls Club of Broward County. A significant $2 million donation from the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation has made this latest development possible, creating a new space dedicated to the well-being and advancement of teens aged 13 to 18. The opening ceremony saw a lively turnout, bolstered by the presence of Mayor Dean J. Trantalis and Commissioner Beasley-Pittman, who partook in the ribbon-cutting festivities.
According to a statement from the WSVN report, Chris Gentile, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Broward County, expressed the organization's intent by claiming the center aims to be a "home away from home" and a sanctuary for kids to divert themselves from street life and channel their energy towards personal development. "We wanna make sure they have a place to go after school, when they are out of school so they can develop their skills and they can be ready for the future, and they can be great," Gentile said.
With the grand opening marked by smiles and symbolic snips of the ribbon, Fort Lauderdale's teenage community now has a place not just to seek refuge but to thrive. The center is designed as a multipurpose facility offering a suite of resources, including life and work readiness programs, career exploration avenues, and scholarships. It aims to equip these young individuals with the tools needed for a future replete with opportunities.
Additional information provided by the City of Fort Lauderdale's official X account, highlights the center's "college corner" and "workforce development" features among other initiatives—further expanding the support network for the youth, of Broward County. Now #FTL teens can better navigate the crossroads between adolescence and adulthood, armed with support and guidance tailored to their individual journeys. The community's investment in these programs signals an enduring commitment to the next generation's potential.
Congrats to @BGCofBroward for opening the Fred DeLuca Teen Center! Today, Mayor @DeanTrantalis & Commissioner Beasley-Pittman snipped the ribbon, officially opening this new facility.
— City of Fort Lauderdale (@FTLCityNews) April 11, 2024
📍 832 NW 2nd St
Now #FTL teens (age 13-18) will have access to the following Boys & Girls Club… pic.twitter.com/9mLKZFHtcl
