TAMPA, Fla. – In a move poised to reshape youth development across the region, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast have officially merged to become the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay.
This unification brings together decades of dedicated service, creating a single, impactful organization serving children and families across Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties.
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More than just a name change, this alliance aims to impact and deepen community roots as the organization looks towards its centennial year. By pooling resources, unifying leadership, and leveraging extensive local expertise, the newly formed Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay is now positioned to extend its reach to thousands more young people, offering enhanced programs and fostering greater equity across the tri-county area.
At the helm of this unified force is Freddy Williams, a proud alumnus of the Clubs and a highly respected leader in youth development. Continuing in his role as President & CEO, Williams brings over 15 years of transformative leadership to the expanded organization.
His track record includes seven consecutive years of double-digit revenue growth and national recognition during his tenure with the Suncoast Clubs.
“This name change marks the start of an exciting new chapter, one that honors two powerful legacies while creating even greater opportunities for the young people who count on us,” stated Freddy Williams, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay. “Young people do not care about county lines; they care about being seen, supported, and set up for success. By coming together, we’re not just unifying our name; we’re uniting our commitment to deliver the very best to every child who walks through our doors.”
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With its 100th anniversary on the horizon, this unification underscores a renewed dedication to innovation and sustainable long-term growth. The combined entity now stands as one of the largest youth-serving organizations in the region, delivering crucial high-impact programming focused on academic success, leadership development, workforce readiness, and overall wellness.
The merger follows months of careful collaboration between the Boards of Directors of both former organizations, with guidance provided by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The integration process prioritized cultural alignment, operational efficiency, and a shared vision focused on elevating every child, regardless of their zip code.
“We’re proud of the impact we’ve made across Hillsborough and Pasco counties, and this next step allows us to grow that impact even further,” commented Board Chair Edwin Narain. “It’s about expanding our reach while staying true to the values that brought us here. A new name, with the same mission of helping young people who need us most.”
Board Chair Elizabeth Constantine added, “From Clearwater to Plant City and everywhere in between, this move means more access and more opportunity for young people. That’s a win for every community in Greater Tampa Bay.”
As it approaches its centennial milestone, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay is focused on the future – a future where every young person, in every corner of the region, has the unwavering support and essential tools they need to thrive and reach their full potential.
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