UrbanVolley 419 has officially relocated to the Friendly Center, a move that supports the growth of its volleyball programming and deepens its roots in Toledo’s core neighborhoods. The new location will allow UrbanVolley 419 to better serve a growing number of athletes while staying committed to its mission of making volleyball accessible to all youth— especially those from underrepresented and underserved communities.
The Friendly Center provides a welcoming and accessible space for training, team development, and wellness-based programming. It also reinforces UrbanVolley 419’s commitment to working with the community—not just in it.
“This move reflects who we are and what we value—equity, access, and community,” said Zahra Aprili Collins, director of UrbanVolley 419. “We want every athlete to feel like they belong here and that they have the tools to compete and grow.”
UrbanVolley 419 is also proud to be the first program welcomed into the Friendly Center by Reggie Williams, the center’s new Program Manager and former director of the Frederick Douglass Community Center. Williams, a long-time community advocate, has been intentional about partnering with programs that offer unique, high-impact experiences for youth.
“I was looking to bring in programs that stand out—ones that really connect with our kids and energize this space,” said Williams. “UrbanVolley 419 is exactly the kind of partnership that helps restore vibrancy to the Friendly Center and reestablishes it as a true hub for youth and families.”
In addition to year-round volleyball training and competitive development, UrbanVolley 419 will expand its Mindfulness for Athletes program, a growing wellness initiative that supports mental focus, emotional regulation, and holistic athlete development. This program is supported by the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board (MHRSB) and reflects UrbanVolley 419’s commitment to nurturing both the physical and mental well being of young athletes.
UrbanVolley 419 is also working with the Friendly Center to make key upgrades to the gym space—including plans to install double practice courts and retractable basketball rims—so the facility can be used to its full potential for both volleyball and other community sports programming.
The organization remains committed to eliminating financial barriers by offering all programs free or at a low cost to participants. This work is made possible through the support of a City of Toledo Youth Programming grant and generous private donations from individuals and community partners who believe in the power of sport to transform lives.
The Toledo Urban Volleyball Association (TUVA) is a nonprofit organization committed to increasing access to volleyball for underserved, underrepresented and under-resourced youth in the city of Toledo. Through its club entity, UrbanVolley 419, TUVA provides accessible training, competition, and wellness programming to develop confident athletes on and off the court.
The Friendly Center, located in the heart of Toledo, has been a trusted neighborhood anchor for over a century. Committed to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals and families, the center offers programs focused on health, education, youth engagement, and community empowerment. With a renewed vision under new leadership, the Friendly Center continues to expand its partnerships and services—working to restore vibrancy, opportunity, and connection across the city’s central neighborhoods.