Joint Statement from Bronx Reps on Joel E. Smilow Closure and Sale - The Hoe Avenue Alumni Association

We are extremely disappointed to learn about the potential sale of the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club, also known as the Joel E. Smilow Clubhouse, in our Borough. Since its inception, this institution has stood as a vital lifeline for countless children and families in our community.’
‘A recent decision by the Board of Directors has left our children and families worried about the status of their community center. The Smilow Club created a pipeline to better outcomes for children in disadvantaged neighborhoods. offering a beacon of hope and progress. Now, as many alumni serve as leaders in government, law enforcement, healthcare, and beyond, former, and current members of the Joel E. Smilow Clubhouse stand as shining examples of the profound impact of strong community programming.*

“We are deeply concerned by the lack of meaningful engagement and transparency from the Boys and Girls Club and its Board of Directors, who have failed to establish a substantive dialogue with the community and its elected officials in advance of this decision. We can only hope that the Club will choose to act in the best interest of its current, young participants, because our Bronx families deserve opportunities for success. They deserve accessible after-school and summer youth programming, responsive educational institutions, modernized infrastructures, and increased economic opportunities. The pending sale of The Smilow Clubhouse will have a negative impact on community trust and ultimately our community’s success.”

*As elected oflicials representing this community at every level of government, we are committed to ensuring the continuity of recreation and services for our youth. We are actively seeking innovative solutions to support the legacy of the Madison Square Boys and Girls Club’s graduates and the children they leave behind due to this decision, ensuring they have every opportunity to thrive.