Empowering Renton’s Community: Family First Community Center Opens its Doors
Renton, WA — June 15, 2023 — The long-awaited Family First Community Center (FFCC) has officially opened its doors in the Benson Hill/Cascade neighborhood of Renton, Washington. This innovative facility, covering 21,000 square feet, is the result of an inspiring partnership between the FFCC Foundation, led by former Seattle Seahawk Doug Baldwin Jr., the City of Renton, the Renton School District, and HealthPoint, a network of community-based health centers.
The FFCC’s grand opening event, set for June 16, marks the culmination of a journey that began back in 2014 when Doug Baldwin Jr. first envisioned a space that could positively impact the community. This vision was refined through discussions with HealthPoint’s former CEO, Tom Trompeter, and former Renton mayor, Denis Law, and finally brought to life in collaboration with the Renton School District.
This center holds immense promise, being the first of its kind in Washington State. It houses a fully-equipped health clinic offering medical, dental, and behavioral health services, in addition to hosting a wide array of recreation, education, and wellness programs. From after-school activities and youth sports to financial literacy classes and health education, the FFCC aims to cater to all age groups and backgrounds, providing a holistic approach to well-being.
Family First Community Center
Doug Baldwin Jr. stated, “The Family First Community Center provides a space where people can feel safe, welcomed, and seen. My hope is that it provides a model for other cities, not only across the state but around the country.” His dream of creating a resource-rich environment akin to his own childhood experiences has finally taken shape.
With over $14 million in funding, sourced from both public and private sectors, the FFCC has taken shape adjacent to Cascade Elementary School, strategically positioning it to address the needs of the community. The Benson Hill/Cascade area, which constitutes about 25% of Renton’s population, has historically lacked access to resources and facilities. The FFCC is poised to fill this gap, especially for the 4,300 students residing in close proximity, many of whom come from low-income households and diverse linguistic backgrounds.
The heart of this center is its focus on holistic wellness, offering medical care alongside recreational and educational programs. Lisa Yohalem, HealthPoint CEO, stressed, “At HealthPoint, we’ve been serving the community for over 50 years, and we know that good health is about much more than healthcare. That’s why we are excited to be part of a community hub that offers a variety of health and wellness services. Together, we can make Renton a healthier and more vibrant place to live.”
The grand opening event on June 16 will welcome the community to explore the FFCC, providing insights into the center’s numerous offerings. Its holistic approach, forged through collaborative efforts between public and private entities, is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. With the Family First Community Center, Renton has embarked on a journey towards a healthier, more connected, and vibrant future.
