With the cut of the big blue ribbon and the cheers of our community, the newly renovated George Jenkins Memorial Club officially reopened its doors Thursday afternoon in Winter Haven. But it wasn’t just the multimillion-dollar transformation that was on full display—it was the joy, hope, and pride of the families, community partners, and Club kids who have poured into this space for decades.
Since 1955, this Club has long been a second home to generations of local kids. Now, after years of planning, fundraising, and dreaming, that home has been completely reimagined.
The renovation—part of the organization’s “Kampaign for Kids” capital campaign—includes everything from upgraded classroom spaces and a dedicated teen center to a kitchen, a tutoring suite, a recording studio, and cutting-edge technology. But it’s the little things that sometimes matter most.
One Club kid walking through the doors, taking in the beautiful new space, cut straight to the heart of it all: “We’re going to have a water fountain!”
That moment was everything. Because this project isn’t just about square footage or new equipment. It’s about what those things mean to the children we serve. It’s about having a safe place to go. It’s about community. It’s about a water fountain.
Led by campaign co-chairs Wesley and Ashley Barnett, and supported by donors, business leaders, and neighbors from across Polk County, the George Jenkins Memorial Club stands today as a place where young people can be inspired, supported, and seen. It’s also a tribute—to the Jenkins family, to Publix, to the Barnett family, and to every individual who refused to let tough years dim the vision of what this place could be.
“This project is a declaration to the thousands of children who will play, learn, and be nourished here that they matter and deserve this,” said Steve Giordano, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County. “We are so grateful to be the stewards of these great futures in this beautiful facility.”
Thursday’s ceremony welcomed local leaders including Mayor Birdsong, BGC Polk Board Member Kerry Wilson, and Kampaign for Kids Chair Wesley Barnett, who offered remarks before guests toured the newly revitalized space and shared in light refreshments and meaningful conversations.
To everyone who attended, and to those who tuned in from home—thank you. Your continued support makes it possible for thousands of kids across our county to build brighter futures every single day.
Click here to read the official press release.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County
Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County serve thousands of children and teens daily through afterschool and summer programs focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and leadership development. With 10 Club sites across the county, the organization is committed to ensuring every young person—especially those who need us most—has access to a safe, supportive environment where they can thrive.
For more information on how you can get involved, go to bgcpolk.org/ways-to-give/ or contact a member of our team directly at info@bgcpolk.org.