Boys & Girls Club officials, community supporters and members celebrated the grand re-opening of the Northeast Boys & Girls club facility Sept. 3, as an estimated $55,000-plus sweat equity was poured into the 50-year-old facility located on Fritz Drive.

Board president Joe Madison praised the many community partners and board members who provided both financial and in-kind support.

Interior painting, new ceilings and carpeting, and a new freezer and stove were installed to upgrade the facility.

Outgoing CEO Gary Martell was recognized for his 42 years of service to the club and incoming CEO Winston Alozie was welcomed. “We celebrate the rejuvenation of this building,” said Martell, who began his career as a bookkeeper. Alozie is a former Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year.

“We’re here to serve the kids,” said Madison, who said the project was completed in two weeks.