NJCDC to Demolish Structure at 54 Front Street to Make Way for New Gymnasium and Great Falls Youth Center Expansion

National -

December 19, 2024

Friday, December 20, 2024, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Photo/Interview Opportunities Available

WHAT:	The New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) is excited to announce the demolition of the unutilized structure at 54 Front Street, clearing the way for the construction of a new indoor gymnasium and additional facilities for the Great Falls Youth Center (GFYC). Opened in March 2018, the GFYC has become a vital resource for the community, serving over 100 students daily. The center provides a safe and supportive environment where students can complete homework, connect with friends, and participate in youth development programming. In 2023, the GFYC underwent a significant expansion to include a multipurpose room and a podcast studio. This new phase of development underscores NJCDC’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for Paterson’s youth. The new gymnasium will further enhance the GFYC’s offerings, providing students with a dedicated space for recreation, physical activity, and community events.

WHEN:	Friday, December 20, 2024, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

WHERE:	NJCDC’s Great Falls Youth Center 54 Front Street Paterson, NJ 07522

WHO:	Mayor Andre Sayegh, community leaders, and NJCDC staff will be on-hand to celebrate this expansion.

WHY:	Before the youth center’s opening, the need for a youth center in Paterson that would stay open late on weeknights and provide a variety of programs and services for older teens was overwhelming. Fortunately, NJCDC was able to purchase a building — Paterson’s former American Legion Hall, originally constructed in 1954 — and transform it into the space it is today, thanks to the generous support of many donors. It has become clear that we need to expand the Youth Center — a safe and welcoming space for all Paterson high school students to frequent during out-of-school hours (including the summer and days when schools are closed) — to accommodate additional students and engage them in more activities.

VISUALS:	Remarks by NJCDC staff and Mayor Andre Sayegh

New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) is dedicated to creating opportunities to transform lives within the Great Falls Neighborhood of Paterson, NJ. NJCDC is a private, non-profit community development and social service agency focusing on education, youth development, affordable and supportive housing, and community building. Founded in 1994, NJCDC serves more than 4,000 children, teens, and families daily, and strives to fulfill its vision that all 8,000 children living or going to school in the Great Falls Neighborhood will reach adulthood, college and career ready.

* Photos will also be available after the event. Please forward requests to .