THE GREATER PORTLAND YOUTH CAMPUS

A Place to Grow.
A Future to Build.

Help build a new generation of opportunity for children and teens across Southern Maine.

THE FUTURE STARTS HERE

Building the Greater Portland Youth Campus

Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine is undertaking a $15 million renovation and expansion of its Cumberland Avenue campus, creating more space, stronger resources, and new opportunities for children and teens across Southern Maine.

The project will bring together a revitalized Portland Clubhouse and the new James and Hilla Bruni Bridge to Success Center, creating a connected campus that supports young people from childhood through young adulthood.

OUR CAMPAIGN GOAL

$15 MILLION

Investing in the next generation of Southern Maine.

Smiling Black girl making a peace sign beside a smiling woman in a blue shirt

THE WHY

More Than a Building. A Place for Possibility.

Every day, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine provides young people with a safe, supportive place to learn, connect, and discover their potential.

As the needs of our community grow, so does the need for spaces that inspire opportunity. The Greater Portland Youth Campus will expand access to programs, strengthen resources, and create an environment where children and teens can build confidence, explore their interests, and prepare for what comes next.

THE VISION

One Campus.
More Opportunities.

The Greater Portland Youth Campus will bring together a revitalized Portland Clubhouse and the new James and Hilla Bruni Bridge to Success Center, creating a connected environment where young people can learn, explore, and grow.

01 / THE CLUBHOUSE

Revitalized Portland Clubhouse

For elementary and middle school youth

  • Art, music & creative spaces
  • Homework & quiet spaces
  • Connection & mentoring hubs
  • Dining & community areas
  • Updated facilities
02 / BRIDGE TO SUCCESS

James and Hilla Bruni
Bridge to Success Center

For teens and young adults

  • Career exploration lab
  • Technology & virtual reality hub
  • Academic, leadership & mentoring spaces
  • Community café
  • Outdoor recreation area
THE IMPACT

More Than a Building.

Creating opportunities that reach far beyond the campus.

Confidence &
Belonging

Building relationships and community.

Career
Exploration

Discovering interests and career pathways.

Skills for
the Future

Developing leadership and life skills.

Stronger
Communities

Connecting youth with mentors and opportunities.

A LEGACY OF OPPORTUNITY

A Gift Rooted in
the Power of the Club.

More than 70 years ago, James Bruni came to the Portland Club as a teenager. The encouragement, belonging, and support he found there stayed with him throughout his life.

James continued volunteering with the organization for as long as he was able, demonstrating the lasting impact a Club experience can have.

In recognition of this extraordinary generosity, the new teen and workforce readiness center will bear the names of James and his wife, Hilla: the James and Hilla Bruni Bridge to Success Center.

THE CAMPAIGN

Help Bring the Vision to Life.

The Greater Portland Youth Campus represents a $15 million investment in Southern Maine's young people. Your support can help create spaces where children and teens connect, discover opportunities, and prepare for their futures.

Learn More

Connect with the campaign team to learn more about the project and how to get involved.

GET IN TOUCH
GOOD TO KNOW

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about the Greater Portland Youth Campus, the plans for the project, and what it means for our community.

What is being built at Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine?

The Greater Portland Youth Campus is a $15 million renovation and expansion of the Cumberland Avenue campus. It will include a revitalized Portland Clubhouse and the new James and Hilla Bruni Bridge to Success Center, creating connected spaces for young people from childhood through young adulthood.

Why is this project needed now?

As the needs of Southern Maine's young people evolve, the Clubs need spaces that support learning, mentorship, creativity, and preparation for the future. The project will update existing facilities and expand opportunities for teens and young adults.

What is the Bridge to Success Center?

The James and Hilla Bruni Bridge to Success Center will be a dedicated space for teens and young adults, with opportunities for career exploration, technology, academic support, leadership development, mentorship, and community connection.

Who will be able to access the new facility?

The campus is being designed to serve young people across different ages and stages of development. The revitalized Portland Clubhouse will focus on elementary and middle school youth, while the Bridge to Success Center will expand opportunities for teens and young adults. Specific enrollment and access details should be confirmed with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine.

Will younger children still be served?

Yes. The revitalized Portland Clubhouse will continue to serve elementary and middle school youth, with updated spaces for creativity, homework, recreation, mentorship, and connection.

When will construction take place?

The Greater Portland Youth Campus project includes renovation and expansion work. Please contact Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine for the latest construction schedule and anticipated project milestones.

Will the Club remain open during construction?

Project plans call for Club operations to continue during construction. Families should check with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine for current programming arrangements, access information, and any temporary changes.

Will there be disruptions to neighbors?

Construction may bring temporary changes to activity, traffic, or access around the campus. The project team can provide information about anticipated impacts and plans to communicate with nearby residents and businesses.

How can neighbors stay informed?

Neighbors can contact Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine for information about project milestones, construction activity, and updates affecting the surrounding community.

How is the project being funded?

The Greater Portland Youth Campus is a $15 million capital campaign supported by philanthropic contributions. A $2.5 million lead gift from Jerome and Pamela Bruni is helping make the project possible. Additional support from individuals, businesses, and community partners will help bring the vision to life.

HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE

Help Build
What's Next.

Every young person deserves a place to belong, discover their potential, and build a brighter future. Your support can help bring the Greater Portland Youth Campus to life.

SUPPORT THE PROJECT