Conceived out of the ashes of a gang-related arson, the Nancy P. Anschutz Center now houses the Jack A. Vickers Boys and Girls Club, as well as offices of the Prodigal Son Initiative, thereby providing new opportunities for the community surrounding the deserted arson site. The building is a one-story steel-and-timber frame structure of approximately 30,000 square feet.
The warm and welcoming facility includes a learning lab, tech lab, arts and crafts room, gymnasium and locker rooms, dining area and kitchen, games room, teen center, community room, conference room, and other associated spaces, as well as parking and landscaping.
This is Northeast Denver’s first ever Boys and Girls Club, offering compatible community services and giving kids a place to play sports, do homework, and participate in after-school programs. The Prodigal Son Initiative aims to prevent youth violence by providing mentorship and opportunities for young people. On this project, Saunders’ community outreach efforts included hiring local labor, providing job training, hosting a Children’s Art Festival, and several community BBQs during the construction process.