History
Our History
The Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, founded on February 8, 1915, has grown significantly over its 108-year history. Initially established to address neighborhood challenges and support local boys, the Club's impact has expanded dramatically over the decades. Key milestones include:
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Flagship Expansion: In 1976 and 1984, the Lucile Palmaro Clubhouse was expanded to include a swimming pool, auditorium, and various athletic facilities.
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Innovative Partnerships: In 1998, the Club partnered with HELP (Housing Enterprise for the Less Privileged) to provide on-site services at homeless shelters, becoming the first in the national Boys & Girls Club movement to do so.
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Frederic R. Coudert Sports Complex: Completed in 2002, this complex includes the Bronx's only ice rink.
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Service Venue Acquisitions: In 2005, the Club added services at Castle Hill Houses and Throggs Neck Houses through New York City Housing Authority Community Centers.
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Camp Sebago: Acquired in 2006, this camp offers rustic camping experiences to urban youth.
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Frederic R. & Margaret Coudert Clubhouse: Opened in 2010 in West Bronx Heights, this 28,000 square foot facility includes advanced technology, a gym, performance space, dedicated areas for younger members, and an education floor with a computer lab.
These milestones reflect the Club’s ongoing commitment to enriching the lives of young people in the Bronx.
The Club moves from midtown Manhattan to the present location in Southeast Bronx. An area of dire need.
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69
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76
A much needed swimming pool and two classrooms as added to facilities to help accommodate a membership of 2,000 boys.
A second major facilities expansion occurs with additions including a 9,000 square foot auditorium and outdoor recreation area to accommodate serving girls.
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84
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88
The board changes the Club’s name to Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club reflecting what has already been a reality.
Through outreach 91-94, satellite clubs are established at 3 public schools mainstreaming all children, and accommodating youngsters with physical limitations.
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94
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96
Daniel Quintero is selected as Executive Director after a national search. A Bronx native, he is the first Kips Bay alumnus to lead the organization.
The club completes a comprehensive 2-year renovation program. Results include a new dance studio & outdoor basketball courts.
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97
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98
In partnership with H.E.L.P. (Housing Enterprise for the Less Privileged), the Club initiates two H.E.L.P. shelters for the homeless in the South Bronx.
Between 2001-02, a new Sports Complex is built and includes The Bronx’s only Ice Skating Rink.
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02
2005
New direct service sites established at New York City Housing Authority Community Centers at Castle Hill Houses & Throggs Neck Houses.
Long-term lease secured for Camp Sebago in Harriman State Park. Day Camp initiated with residential camping initiated between 2006 & 2007.
2007
2009
Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club opens its 10th service location. Coudert Clubhouse is a 30,000 square foot facility in the West Bronx.
Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club is serving more than 10,000 children.
2012
2015
Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club celebrates 100 years of serving children!
Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club partners with Major League Baseball to open a Digital Arts Center, complete with a recording studio.
2017
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17
Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club celebrates 50 years in the Bronx!
Amidst COVID-19 pandemic Kips Bay pivots, offering online program delivery & hybrid-learning programs during school hours.
Kips Bay serves 1000 bags of food weekly amidst the pandemic.
2020
2022
Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club open a Culinary Learning Center within the Coudert Clubhouse!
Construction begins on renovation of the newly imagined Palmaro Clubhouse’s main recreation room.
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2024
The renovation of the newly imagined Palmaro Clubhouse recreation room is complete and opened!