Hawks and State Farm Unveil 11th Good Neighbor Club in Southwest Atlanta

On Thursday, November 14th, the Atlanta Hawks, in partnership with State Farm, proudly unveiled their latest community enhancement project at the C.T. Martin Natatorium and Recreation Center. This new addition marks the 11th Good Neighbor Club, a testament to the organizations’ ongoing commitment to community development and youth engagement in Atlanta.

The newly renovated space at the C.T. Martin Natatorium isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about empowerment. The highlight of this club is the new teen center, a vibrant space designed specifically for the youth of Southwest Atlanta. This center isn’t merely a recreational area; it’s a hub for learning, creativity, and community spirit. One of the standout features of the teen center is the HBCU Pennant Wall. Adorned with the banners of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, this wall symbolizes pride, educational aspirations, and a connection to a rich legacy. The initiative aligns with the Hawks’ broader educational efforts, emphasizing the importance of HBCUs while also celebrating the legacy of the Divine Nine, the African American Greek-letter fraternities and sororities.

The event was graced by the presence of notable figures from both the Hawks and State Farm, including Hawks players Bogdan Bogdanovic and Vít Krejčí, whose participation underscored the team’s dedication to community service. Alongside representatives from State Farm and local government, these figures highlighted the collaborative spirit of this project. The unveiling wasn’t just a ribbon-cutting ceremony; it was a celebration with activities designed specifically for the young attendees, including custom bucket hat making, a gaming tournament, an interactive dance lesson, and a photobooth to capture the day’s memories.

This Good Neighbor Club initiative is more than just a physical space; it represents a long-term commitment to the youth, offering them a safe, supportive environment where they can explore their interests, learn, and grow. By incorporating educational themes such as HBCU recognition, the project subtly encourages higher education and cultural pride among Atlanta’s young population.

As this project unfolds, the impact on community engagement and youth development in Southwest Atlanta is profound. The Hawks and State Farm continue to demonstrate how sports teams and corporations can play pivotal roles beyond their primary functions, becoming integral parts of the community fabric. The Good Neighbor Clubs are not just about giving back; they’re about building forward, creating spaces where future leaders can thrive. The C.T. Martin Natatorium Good Neighbor Club stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, proving once again that when communities, teams, and companies unite, the possibilities for positive impact are limitless.

To learn more about the Hawks’ work in the community, visit Hawks.com/community.