Coastal Conversations
Every shore community has people who dedicate their time and energy to making it a better place to live, work, and visit. As recreation director for the Brigantine Beach Community Center, Jim Mogan has spent more than five decades doing exactly that, building programs for island families, leading recovery efforts after Superstorm Sandy and helping shape what makes Brigantine feel like home. He shares how he first found his way to the island, the programs and people that have defined his career, and what he’s looking forward to next.
AS: What first brought you to Brigantine, and how did that lead to your role as Recreation Director?
JM: Born in Atlantic City, I attended Holy Spirit grammar and high schools in the Inlet section, where I became friends with many Brigantine students. I would come to Brigantine to play outdoor basketball at Holst’s Court on 24th St., beginning many lifelong friendships. After graduating in 1965 from St. Francis, PA College, our family moved to Brigantine. We were glad to live in a small beach community with a strong school system. I also taught and coached at Holy Spirit High School from 1966 to 1970 and became part-time recreation director in 1969.
AS: What is it about Brigantine that makes it special to you?
JM: We are fortunate to live where there are beautiful beaches, wonderful people and many recreational and social activities. With all the progress the island is making, the most important component is the welcoming spirit of our residents. At the Community Center, we see this attitude every day. Visitors to Brigantine are constantly talking about this warm welcome.
AS: What community programs are you most proud of building over the years?
JM: My duties as Recreation Director include planning, organizing and running summer programs. One of our first tasks was establishing a Senior Citizens Club, which is still active today. We also initiated basketball and baseball instructional camps and leagues, outdoor playgrounds, adult volleyball and basketball activities, and a Summer Concert series. Later, as director of community education and recreation, we developed events such as the Brigantine Triathlon, Family Fun Day, Santa Claus arrival, a year-round concert series, and a co-sponsored Meals for Seniors program.
AS: What has been the most meaningful moment of your time in Brigantine?
JM: Approximately one year after the Brigantine Beach Community Center opened in October 2011, the island was hit by Superstorm Sandy. We converted the building to a rescue and relief center for the people of Brigantine. With the tremendous support of federal, state and county governments, and hundreds of volunteers, we were able to meet the needs of our people.
AS: How did the community come together in the aftermath?
JM: After Superstorm Sandy, we established Brig Strong, a volunteer organization that helped residents deal with home and flood insurance, grants, financial donations and other problems. This experience was especially meaningful to me as it showed the true spirit of Brigantine people. The hands-on support we received from Mayor Guenther, the City Council, our city departments, especially the Public Works Department, and hundreds of volunteers helped us survive Sandy. Brig Strong helped the people of Brigantine get back on their feet. The spirit and dedication of these volunteers truly showed what Brigantine is all about. This was an experience that we will never forget!
AS: How has Brigantine changed since you first got involved, and what’s remained the same?
JM: Brigantine has certainly changed over the past 15 years, with an influx of new people making investments in housing and businesses, resulting in a more diverse community. With all the progress the island is making, the most important component is the welcoming spirit of our residents. Because of this attitude, Brigantine’s progress and future is very bright!
AS: What’s ahead for Brigantine recreation?
JM: Mayor Vince Sera has outlined a five-year project for the 42nd St. Recreational Area. This project will make Brigantine one of the finest recreation areas along the coast. Brigantine will continue its quest that will make Brigantine an “Island That You Will Love For Life.”
Thanks to Jim, for sharing his decades of contributions to Brigantine Island, from helping the community rebuild after Sandy to creating recreational programs and activities for its residents, his dedication continues to shape what makes Brigantine feel like a special place to live.
Coastal Conversations highlights people in our community who are making a meaningful impact. If you know someone who would be a great fit for a future column, please contact me at ShoreCoastalConversations@gmail.com.
From the shore to your door, let’s keep the conversation going.
