New Fraim Fitness Center Opens for Teens and Seniors

What used to be a simple garage at the Clarence Fraim Boys & Girls Club has officially transformed into a modern fitness center designed to strengthen both bodies and community connection. On March 4, Club members, community supporters and local officials gathered to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Fraim Fitness Center for a soft-opening. The new facility will support teens in the club’s Stay Real Program where they build discipline, confidence, and lifelong healthy habits, while also serving participants from the Fraim Center for Active Adults.

Teens Leading the Way

During the opening, teens proudly stepped into the role of trainers and tour guides, walking visitors through the new space. Their excitement offered a preview of what this center means for them. “This renovation is an investment in the health, confidence, and well-being of our youth,” said John Wellons, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware. “The new state-of-the-art fitness center is designed to meet teens where they are today. From modern equipment to an environment that feels motivating, welcoming, and relevant to their interests, this renovation is an investment in the health, confidence, and well-being of our youth”

A Space Built for Growth

The Fraim Fitness Center is a place designed to inspire growth, connection, and opportunity. It gives teens a structured, supportive environment to learn strength training and develop positive habits, while providing older adults a resource for staying active and engaged.

For Wellons, the project represents the organization’s ongoing commitment to create spaces where young people feel supported and motivated to grow. “This new center does exactly that. I’m grateful to our community partners who helped bring this vision to life, especially members of our congressional delegation who supported funding for the project. Together, we are building a place where teens can thrive,”

Community Support Made It Possible

Funding for the project came through federal appropriations supported by members of Delaware’s congressional delegation including Funding for the Fraim Fitness Center was secured through federal appropriations supported by members of Delaware’s congressional delegation, including Sen. Tom Carper, Sen. Chris Coons and Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester. Their support helped turn an unused garage into a space that will reach young people during the critical out-of-school hours when they benefit most from structure, engagement, and trusted adult relationships. “The new fitness center at the Fraim Boys & Girls Club is a great investment in Wilmington’s future that will help strengthen the entire community by giving young people a safe place to build strength, confidence, and healthy habits. I’m proud to have worked with then-Senator Tom Carper and Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester to secure nearly $3 million in federal funding that supported this project alongside renovations at the Brown Family Club in Wilmington and the Laurel Boys & Girls Club.” said Sen. Coons.

What’s Next

The March event served as a soft opening for the center. A larger community celebration is planned later this year. With more than 20,000 young people served annually across 46 Delaware locations, the new Fraim Fitness Center is a powerful addition to the organization’s mission—helping every young person reach their full potential.

Faith C. , Seth Cottom, Shadee A.

Ty Perry, Seth Cottom, Coach Mark Newton, Casey Husfelt, Amanda Alexander, Representative DeShanna Neal & daughter, Wilmington City Council Member James Spadola, President & CEO John Wellons