HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Community members came together on Wednesday to celebrate a major milestone for the Boys & Girls Club of Hopkinsville-Christian County. The event marked the Club’s 20th anniversary and the grand opening of the newly renovated Wade Family Gymnasium.
The celebration began with a luncheon where attendees enjoyed a guided tour of the facility and heard from staff and supporters about the club’s impact on local youth. Executive Director Terrence Davis described the Club as a beacon of hope and opportunity, explaining that it serves students in kindergarten through 12th grade and focuses on academic success, career readiness, character development, and healthy lifestyles. Boys & Girls Clubs of America President and CEO Jim Clark spoke during the event, among other special guests.
Wade Family Gymnasium unveiled
The remodeled gym was made possible by former college basketball coach and Hopkinsville native Tommy Wade Jr. The newly renovated Wade Family Gymnasium was done in honor of Wade’s parents, Tom and Wanda Wade. They were well-known in the community, owned a downtown business for over 45 years, and both graduated from Hopkinsville High School, which once stood on the same property as the Boys & Girls Club.
Wade, who was inducted into the Hopkinsville Hall of Fame earlier this year, said he felt inspired to give back after touring the Club during a visit home.
“After being in this building, this facility, and seeing the good that it provides the youth in Hopkinsville, I’m thinking maybe this is it,” Wade said. “My mother and dad were big givers in Hopkinsville… and I wanted to honor them in a way they would be proud of.”
Wade partnered closely with Davis throughout the process, with both explaining they shared the same goal, which was to create a gym space that was both meaningful and functional for the kids. The new facility features a fresh orange and black color scheme, Wade’s high school colors, and includes a dedicated court named in honor of his parents.
“I grew up here… This location has been fabulous,” he said. “I’m sold on the Boys and Girls Club. I’m sold on the concept. I’m sold on what they do for this community.”
Davis expressed his thanks for the support the Wade family has given. “We’re just beyond thankful for this opportunity”.
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