What started out as a donation from the Clarence Smith Family to Boardman Township, has now turned into a much needed hub for first responders.

"Since then they've received donations from Mahoning County Sheriff's Office, Poland Township Police Department, Beaver Township Police Department and other private donations helped to transform this beautiful facility into a wellness center for first responders," said Greg Wilson, Poland Township Police Chief.

Now, proceeds from the Battle of the Bridge boxing event Friday, January 23, will pit a local police officer and firefighter against each other. The main even of a seven-fight card.

"It's all about camaraderie and giving us a joint place where we can all use to kind of settle down and relax," said J.R. Jackson, a detective sergeant with the Poland Township Police Department, who is fighting in the main event.

His opponent, Patrick McGlone, is a Youngstown Firefighter but both are on the same team when it comes to fighting for fellow first responders.

"Those first responders won't seek it out but when you can provide a place like this, now it's easily accessible," said McGlone.

The building has three classroom settings for department trainings, mental health services which are already being taken advantage of by local departments.

"If there is a mass critical situation that would occur, this would be an ideal location for people to gather, to be able to express what happened in a nice quiet setitng," Chief Wilson explained.

Chief Wilson says 2026 will bring about phase two including a gym and recreation area on the property.