The Enduring Spirit of Cooper Street Recreation Center
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
The Cooper Street Recreation Center has long stood as a cornerstone of the Punta Gorda community. More than just a building, it has been a place where generations have come together—neighbors becoming friends, children finding mentors, and families building memories.
Originally established as a community hub, Cooper Street has played a significant role in fostering connection and belonging. For decades, it has offered a safe, welcoming space for learning, recreation, and support, especially for youth and underserved populations.
As we reflect on its legacy, we’re also looking ahead:
What role will Cooper Street continue to play in shaping our community’s future?
How can we honor its history while adapting to meet today’s needs?
Just over a year ago, YMCA of Southwest Florida began operating the Cooper Street Rec Center. They’ve been incredible partners, and we’re proud to support their efforts to breathe new life into this historic space.
As mobilizers, our role is to match volunteers with meaningful opportunities. In January, we hosted a Day of Caring at Cooper Street. While much was accomplished that day, it also revealed just how much more potential this incredible space holds. (See below to read the full column in The Daily Sun).
When the Agent Leadership Council at Keller Williams Peace River Partners reached out looking for a volunteer project for RED Day, we immediately suggested Cooper Street.
Every second Thursday in May, Keller Williams agents around the world put down their phones, pick up paintbrushes, and head into the heart of their communities for something truly special: RED Day. RED stands for Renew, Energize, and Donate, and it’s more than a feel-good initiative — it’s a cornerstone of their culture.
On May 8, 2025, over 50 Keller Williams Peace River Partners volunteers showed up in force. With sleeves rolled up and armed with paint cans, wheelbarrows, mulch, rakes, and a shared mission, they set out to give back to a place that has given so much to others.
They painted walls and spread mulch — far more than anticipated — brightening up the playground and garden beds. They also assembled new furniture, giving the gathering areas a refreshed sense of purpose and comfort.
Some left with paint in their hair and dirt on their shoes, but all left with a smile on their face and a story to share.
Alisha Colligan, Team Manager and Realtor with the Rhonda Gustitus Team, shared “We were surprised by just how expansive Cooper Street is— and how many lives it touches every single day. It’s more than a building. It’s a beating heart of community connection, growth, and opportunity. And it needed a little TLC.”
This wasn’t just a day of giving back – it was a vibrant, tangible reminder of what happens when people care enough to show up. A historic, beloved building is getting the revitalization and recognition it deserves. We’re incredibly thankful to the Keller Williams team and all the volunteers who continue to carry the spirit of Cooper Street Rec forward.
Earlier this year, we hosted our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at the center, providing free tax returns to 339 residents. Hosting VITA at Cooper Street made a real difference by providing services in a trusted, familiar space right in the heart of the neighborhood. Alongside everyone at YMCA Cooper Street, we’re proud to play a small part in what the future holds.
Let’s keep the momentum going – together.
To view our previous January column or sign up for your own community Day of Caring, please visit: unitedwayccfl.org/Cornerstone
For more information about United Way Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.