Grand Opening!

Oct 14

Community members joined BronxWorks and ACS leadership for the official ribbon cutting, celebrating the opening of the UPTOWN Family Enrichment Center.

On October 12, the UPTOWN Family Enrichment Center (FEC) officially celebrated its Grand Opening at 3535 Holland Avenue. Families, community members, partners, elected officials, and agency leaders gathered in Williamsbridge to celebrate a milestone that has been years in the making and to recognize the importance of creating spaces where families can come together, build relationships, and strengthen their community.

While the day marked the official opening of the center, it was also a celebration of what the Family Enrichment Center model represents. Family Enrichment Centers are designed to bring people together in welcoming, community-driven spaces that foster connection, mutual support, and family leadership. They build on the strengths that already exist within neighborhoods and create opportunities for residents to learn from one another, share resources, and shape the future of their communities.

Since establishing its presence in Williamsbridge and Baychester, UPTOWN FEC has worked to create that kind of environment. Families have helped shape programming, participated in activities, and shared their ideas for what they want to see in their community. The Grand Opening was an opportunity to celebrate that work while also looking ahead to what is still to come.

a community Celebration

Guests spent the afternoon exploring the center, connecting with neighbors, and learning more about the resources and offerings available through UPTOWN FEC.

A community drum circle brought families together during the Grand Opening celebration, demonstrating the spirit of connection and engagement that defines UPTOWN FEC.

The program included remarks from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, BronxWorks Chief Executive Officer Eileen Torres, and ACS Executive Director for Family Enrichment Programs LisaMarie Gordalis. Each speaker reflected on the value of investing in families and communities, and the important role Family Enrichment Centers play in creating spaces where residents feel connected, supported, and empowered.

A special highlight of the day was a series of performances by students from Learning Tree Prep. The celebration began with a vibrant dance performance and drum circle that energized the audience and set a festive tone for the afternoon. Guests were then treated to a beautiful violin performance that showcased the talent and dedication of local youth. The cultural program concluded with a rap performance by local artist LL Cool Baby, that brought creativity, confidence, and community pride to the stage.

These performances were a fitting reflection of the Family Enrichment Center model. At their core, Family Enrichment Centers seek to create opportunities for community members to share their strengths, talents, and experiences. The young performers from Learning Tree Prep embodied that spirit and helped make the celebration especially meaningful.

The celebration concluded with the official ribbon cutting, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the UPTOWN Family Enrichment Center and the families it serves. Guests then came together for a raffle giveaway, with prizes ranging from massage guns and air mattresses to rollerblades and bicycles. The excitement and enthusiasm in the room provided a fitting end to a day focused on bringing neighbors together and celebrating the possibilities that lie ahead for the Williamsbridge and Baychester communities.

As we close this chapter and begin the next, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of the UPTOWN FEC journey so far. From the families who first walked through our doors, to the community members, partners, and supporters who believed in this vision, your presence has helped shape what this center has become. While the Grand Opening marks our official beginning, our relationships with the community have been growing long before the ribbon was cut. We are excited to move forward together, deepening those connections, creating new opportunities, and continuing to build a space where families feel a true sense of belonging. The future of UPTOWN FEC will be written alongside the community it serves, and we are grateful to have you with us every step of the way