About

The Detroit Recreation Department's Roberto Clemente Recreation Center is nestled between two of Southwest Detroit’s major tourism locations: Corktown and Historic Mexican Village. Roberto Clemente is just 1 block from the Michigan Welcome Center and Ambassador Bridge which welcomes countless visitors daily; often generating passerby traffic to the recreation center.  The center is a member of the Southwest Detroit Business Association (established in 1957).
Originally, the center was named the Bagley Center a converted warehouse consisting of two rooms (game room , multipurpose room and gymnasium) and affectionately called the “Tap Center”.  In 1978, the building received major renovations under a Grant of the Urban Park and Recreation Act under the late Mayor, Coleman A. Young admin.

The center provides a safe family friendly environment for all ages.  In 1985, mural artist W. Mora created an Ofrenda Installation entitled, “In honor of.”  In 2000 part 1 of the Ofrenda Installation was dedicated to American Warriors.  2001, part 2 of the Ofrenda Installation was dedicated to Healing Spirits. The mural which is located inside the multipurpose room  has been renovated and restored by artist, Vito J. Valdez (DIA).  Mr. Valdez is also an active member of the Roberto Clemente Community and has previously hosted art workshops within the center. Additionally, Mr. Valdez has a volunteer group which helps to remove any graffiti on the exterior of building.  

Roberto Clemente Center has partnered with: H.A.P., Enhance Fitness, Diabetic Association, CHASS WIC Clinic, Healthy-Kidz, Master Sports, Supplemental Nutrient Assistance Program (Snap Ed.) and Gleaners Community Food Bank.  The center also
receives the support from Honey Bee Market, Michigan Welcome Center, Donovan's Pub and La Gloria Bakery during various community & holiday events such as: Walk for the Heart (MI Nutrition- Rec. Connect event), Cinco De Mayo Parade, African American and Hispanic Heritage Celebration, St. Patrick's Day Buffet & Bingo Event, Easter Egg Hunt, Mother’s Day Ceramics Craft Sale, Halloween Festival, Thanksgiving Turkey Trot Walking Event, "Detroit-So You Think You Can Dance" showcase.  Annually, the recreation center does a Christmas food & toy drive for low-income families.

Roberto Clemente Center's hours of operation Summer 2012: Monday-Friday 11am-7pm  Programs currently offered: FREE Summer Lunch Program(age 18 & under),Open Gym (youth, teen, adults, seniors),Tutorial/Computer Lab, Game Room, Art classes (drawing, painting, ceramics), craft classes, Frisbee Fitness class, weight room, Zumba by Enhance Fitness[FREE with paid membership], low-impact aerobics class, adult volleyball, Clemente Badgers basketball team. Picklellball, Rhythm -N-Community workshop and Creative Expressions performing arts group.   Roberto Clemente Center offers room rentals for special events (showers, birthday parties, receptions, meetings).
Annual Membership Fees:
Adults Age 18-49 $10.00      Adults Age 50-59 $7.00
Teens Age 13-17 $ 7.00      Youth Age   6-12 $5.00
Senior Citizens  Age 60 & older FREE
Weight room Fees: $55.00 6months  $100.00 12 months