Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama (BGCSA) regrettably announces the closure of the Optimist Branch after years of serving our community’s youth. Due to the pending demolition of the housing units and the community center at the R.V. Taylor Plaza location, operations at the Optimist Branch will cease on Friday, September 29.
The Optimist Branch has been a cornerstone of the community, providing a safe and nurturing space for youth to learn, grow, and thrive. Our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners have worked tirelessly to create a positive and empowering environment for thousands of youths who walked through the doors of the Optimist Branch at the R.V. Taylor Plaza.
We express our deepest gratitude to the individuals and organizations who have participated in the Optimist Branch journey. Our club members, their families, our dedicated staff, selfless volunteers, generous donors, supportive community partners (including Mobile Housing Authority, Mobile Optimist Club, and the Optimist Club Advisory Board), and many others have all played an integral role in shaping the legacy of the Optimist Branch.
As we transition into this new chapter, we remain committed to ensuring that Club members and their families have access to Boys & Girls Club programming and services. In partnership with the City of Mobile Parks & Recreation, BGCSA will host an after-school program for elementary and middle school children at the Harmon-Thomas Community Center at 1611 Belfast St, Mobile, AL.
Although the physical location is closing soon, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama remains committed to finding a new location for the Optimist Branch in the future. Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this transition and remain dedicated to the well-being and growth of our community’s youth.
The Optimist Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama Members & Alumni Reunion Cookout will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023 from 11 am until 3 pm. Please help spread the word as we reflect, share and celebrate Optimist BGC “Journey Over the Years” of past and present members.
