William Walker Recreation Center at 2405 Fairburn Road SW serves the Ben Hill neighborhood as both a traditional recreation facility and innovative community resource center, uniquely housing a free Goodr grocery store addressing local food insecurity. Named for longtime director Coach William Walker who developed numerous programs over decades of service, the center combines standard recreational amenities – covered basketball court, tennis courts, multipurpose fields – with comprehensive youth programming for ages 7-12 focusing on academics, health, fitness, leadership, and technology. While the facility receives praise for its community impact and youth development, particularly through Coach Walker’s legacy and current staff like Ms. Brown, some organizational challenges and limited senior programming indicate opportunities for improvement.
The center’s dual role as recreation facility and food resource hub through the Goodr grocery store initiative distinguishes it from typical recreation centers, directly addressing food desert challenges in Southwest Atlanta. Youth programs receive consistent praise with coaches described as “good with children” despite some organizational issues, while the legendary Coach Walker’s influence continues through current programming that many describe as “the best thing ever happen to kids.” However, seniors report insufficient activities despite available space, and some visitors note organizational challenges that affect program delivery, suggesting the facility struggles to balance its multiple community service roles effectively.
William Walker Recreation Center at 2405 Fairburn Road SW serves the Ben Hill neighborhood as both a traditional recreation facility and innovative community resource center, uniquely housing a free Goodr grocery store addressing local food insecurity. Named for longtime director Coach William Walker who developed numerous programs over decades of service, the center combines standard recreational amenities – covered basketball court, tennis courts, multipurpose fields – with comprehensive youth programming for ages 7-12 focusing on academics, health, fitness, leadership, and technology. While the facility receives praise for its community impact and youth development, particularly through Coach Walker’s legacy and current staff like Ms. Brown, some organizational challenges and limited senior programming indicate opportunities for improvement.
The center’s dual role as recreation facility and food resource hub through the Goodr grocery store initiative distinguishes it from typical recreation centers, directly addressing food desert challenges in Southwest Atlanta. Youth programs receive consistent praise with coaches described as “good with children” despite some organizational issues, while the legendary Coach Walker’s influence continues through current programming that many describe as “the best thing ever happen to kids.” However, seniors report insufficient activities despite available space, and some visitors note organizational challenges that affect program delivery, suggesting the facility struggles to balance its multiple community service roles effectively.
The recreation center building houses the Goodr free grocery store, providing essential food access to combat local food insecurity. Indoor basketball court within the gymnasium supports year-round youth leagues and adult sports programming.
Covered basketball court provides weather-protected outdoor play complementing indoor gymnasium facilities. Two tennis courts offer racquet sport opportunities for various skill levels and age groups. Multipurpose baseball/football field accommodates seasonal sports leagues and casual community use.
Community spaces host events like back-to-school bashes featuring animal farms and other family attractions. Meeting areas provide gathering spaces for community organizations and special programs.
Comprehensive after-school and seasonal programs emphasize academics, health and fitness, leadership development, technology skills, and community involvement. Youth sports leagues including basketball, football, and volleyball provide structured athletic development with coaches praised for patience with children.
Adult basketball leagues and open gym sessions maintain active recreation for community members beyond youth programming. Community events and tournaments create social connections while promoting healthy lifestyles.
Morning aerobics for ages 55+ provides structured fitness opportunities for older adults. Limited additional senior programming despite available space indicates unmet demand for elder services.
The Goodr grocery store operates as a free market addressing food desert conditions in the Ben Hill area. This unique integration of essential services with recreation programming demonstrates innovative approaches to comprehensive community support.
Coach William Walker’s decades of mentorship created lasting impact with multiple generations praising his influence on youth development. Current staff including Ms. Brown continue the tradition of dedicated community service and youth support.
While coaches receive praise for working well with children, some organizational challenges affect smooth program delivery. The “William Walker Family” atmosphere creates strong community bonds despite operational inconsistencies.
The facility serves as a true neighborhood hub where families gather for youth sports, seniors seek fitness opportunities, and residents access essential food resources. Multi-generational usage from grandparents watching grandchildren play sports to adults participating in leagues demonstrates broad community value.
Seniors specifically note “a lot of room but nothing to do,” indicating underutilized space that could serve aging populations. Organizational issues mentioned by multiple reviewers suggest need for improved program management and communication systems to maximize the facility’s potential while honoring Coach Walker’s legacy of comprehensive community service.
