The Optimism Oasis is a 15 acre, multi-sports & cultural center proposed to be built in the historic Northside Community in Wilmington, North Carolina behind the Boys & Girls Club of SENC and across from DC Virgo Preparatory Academy. 

 

The Optimism Oasis is being built in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern NC and the New Hanover County Board of Education to meet the many critical needs of our rapidly growing community:

 

1. Social & Economic Needs: Optimism Oasis will provide jobs, two daycare co-ops and be a safe fun place for youth providing countless creative outlets after school, on weekends, holidays & summer vacation. In addition to our extensive athletic facilities, we will have a state-of-the-art makerspace, an e-sports gaming arena, the Great Achievers Stage & Summit, our Leadership Academy, ninja obstacle course and dozens of inspirational & motivational exhibits on career & success, dream-building and nutrition & wellness.

 

2. Safety Needs: Recognizing our seaside location, Optimism Oasis will offer FREE swimming/life saving lessons to ALL New Hanover County students. Also, the Oasis will be a one-of-a-kind urban sanctuary for people of all ages and abilities to exercise, play and learn year around. 

 

3. Athletic Facility Needs: Optimism Oasis will be an attractive and spacious destination for regional & national track meets, swim meets, triathlons, basketball, volleyball & pickleball tournaments and the performing arts.

 

4. Community Building Needs: Optimism Oasis will be an irresistible community gathering space, especially our Cultural Arts Center designed to honor and celebrate the Northside’s rich African American history and culture.

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Want to explore the Oasis? Keep reading!