A safe and welcoming environment where teens feel connected and empowered

We welcome 60–80 youth daily, many of whom come from under-served backgrounds. While their circumstances may not always warrant intervention by child protective services, many face difficult home lives. Some arrive hungry, others simply seeking refuge from stress or instability. Several are at risk of academic failure or involvement in the juvenile justice system. The center offers them hope, direction, and a sense of belonging.

Although our center is currently closed to youth on Fridays, our staff is still hard at work behind the scenes. One Friday, our Program Director noticed a familiar youth lingering outside the center. He stepped outside to check in, sensing that something was weighing heavily on the young man's heart.

This particular youth had always been quiet—rarely speaking when attending the center. But that day was different. As they sat down together, the youth slowly began to open up. With tears streaming down his face, he shared what he had been carrying inside. In that moment, our Program Director simply listened, encouraged, and mentored him.

The impact was immediate and profound. After their conversation, the youth’s entire demeanor shifted—his face radiated relief, joy, and a sense of being seen. Since that encounter, he has become an active and engaged participant in our daily programs. He now eagerly joins activities, shows interest in learning new things, and, perhaps most importantly, has formed friendships with his peers.

This is just one example of how even a single moment of connection can spark meaningful change—and it’s exactly why we do what we do.