Springfield community center plans to buy building, build duplexes to support itself

SPRINGFIELD ― What started as a small after-school program in 2004 is now growing — and dreaming big.

The Center After School Program wants to help even more kids and families in Springfield, and it's inviting the community to learn more.

On Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the center will host an open house to share its plans to buy the building it's been renting and expand its services.

Since opening, the center has offered summer programs , preschool, parenting classes and a safe place for kids after school, with free transportation. Now, it's working to become a full nonprofit agency and build 15 duplex homes to help families that need stable housing.

"The more we grow, the more opportunities there will be for employment in a supportive community that fosters growth, health and achievements," said Althea Morales, program coordinator. "By expanding our reach and with the additional space, we can do more."

Morales said it has a special lease with Springfield College for the building at 45 Island Pond Road. The center signed a three-year lease-to-own contract and hopes to buy the building; the asking price is currently $7 million.

The center also owns land on Boston Road, where it plans to build duplex homes. The center already has permission to build two, but it hopes to eventually build more. The rent from these homes will help pay for the headquarters building.

The organization has started the project using its own money but is waiting for a construction loan. If all goes well, building could start in April, Morales said.

The Center After School Program plans to expand its services and build housing for families, with an open house set for Sept. 24 to share its vision with the community. (Aprell May Munford / The Republican)Aprell May Munford

Building on its mission to support families and strengthen the community, the center has launched a new nonprofit initiative, which will help it apply for grants and offer more programs to support youth and families, Morales said.

Right now, the center serves kids ages 2 through 14, with room to serve up to 155; currently, 120 kids are enrolled. The center employs 25 staff, including drivers.

"We want to give more families access to quality child care they can trust," Morales said. "We've been here for 20 years, and we're growing to help even more people."

The center's mission is to empower youth and families from all backgrounds by offering education, job opportunities, and support, she said.

Julius Lewis, a center financial consultant, said the organization isn't just an investment in child care; it's also an investment in the long-term financial health of the entire community.

Providing a safe, structured and enriching environment helps working parents remain productive in their careers, reduces turnover for local employers and strengthens future generation with educational and social skills, he said.

Jynai McDonald, CEO of Urban Impact Initiative Massachusetts, agrees.

The center represents more than just a building or a program; it's a trusted member of our community, McDonald said.

"Families are able to get their young ones access to care in an environment that fosters learning healthy growth and exploration beyond the classroom through the centers enriching extracurricular activities and mentorship they are expanding horizons for the young people in our community," she said.

Read the original article on MassLive .