Integrate Construction Partners/Lawrence Group Bringing Boys & Girls Club Regional Workforce Development Teen Center to Poplar Bluff, MO

For the past 25 years, Boys & Girls Club (BGC) of the Heartland has relied on the generosity of the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District for space to host its afterschool and summer programs. After two decades of service to thousands of impoverished school-aged students, the organization will finally have its own place to call home.

Design-Builder Integrate Construction Partners has teamed with Lawrence Group Architects for the design and construction of the organization’s new Regional Workforce Development Teen Center adjacent to Poplar Bluff High School in Poplar Bluff, MO.

Symbolically referred to as a beacon of hope, the 31,000-square-foot facility will be located on a hilltop overlooking the intersection of Interstate 57 and Hwy. 67. The unique location will allow easy access for students from more than 20 area high schools in Missouri and Northeast Arkansas participating in the organization’s Workforce Development Initiative. The job readiness program prepares students for their future careers through the development of critical employment skills and training and experiential learning, plus an opportunity to earn college credits.

Incorporated in 1999, the Club has grown from two school-based sites and 60 members to nine locations throughout Poplar Bluff, Neelyville and Malden, helping over 650 youth daily to have a safe and positive place to go after school. BGC focuses on academics, healthy lifestyles, good character and citizenship, fostering positive relationships with adults, and providing opportunities for new experiences and a place to make new friends. Our mission is to enable all young people, especially the ones that need us the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

“This new facility is not just a building; it’s a place where youth can feel rooted and have a sense of ownership and belonging. Creating a safe and supportive environment is vital for youth to thrive, make memories, complete programming and finally have a place they can call their own. We are excited to start this journey and partnership with Integrate Construction Partners and Lawrence Group.” 

~Robbie Toth, Chief Operating Officer (18yrs with BGC)

The Integrate/Lawrence Group team was selected from seven RFQ respondents who were then shortlisted to four design-build teams vying for the project. Integrate and Lawrence Group’s team developed a great report with BGC during the onboarding process and was able to accommodate nearly all the organization’s requested design features within the $10 million budget.

To accommodate the organization’s mission, the new facility will contain a full-size gymnasium, recreation and office area, and classroom wing, along with the following features:

·        STEM lab and workshop

·        Computer lab

·        Game/rec room

·        Café and full commercial kitchen

·        Playground

·        Garden and greenhouse

·        Conference/board room

·        Consolidated administrative area with offices, breakroom and staff workspaces

Integrate is expected to break ground on the new center in July 2024, with an estimated completion date in October 2025