Culmore Teen Center
National studies show that after-school programs keep youth in school, and away from crime, substance abuse, and early sexual activity.
The Culmore Teen Center provides young people with a safe and welcoming place to spend their free time and get critical support services. Located in space donated by the Olde Salem Village Apartment complex, young people in the 7th through 12th grades have a place to study, get homework help and nutritious food, particpate in educational field trips and supervised recreation, and receive counseling.
The Culmore Teen Center opens after school Monday through Friday and doesn't close until 9 pm. When school is not in session, the doors open earlier to give young people a safe place to be, away from neighborhood gangs and violence.
"Maria" began going to the Teen Center in middle school.
Programs at the Teen Center are designed to keep young people safe, in school, and focused on a successful future. Teen Center staff provide counseling and crisis intervention, and coordinate with parents, teachers, and guidance counselors to bring a much-needed extra level of support to the many high-risk youth who rely on the Teen Center.
The economic downturn has had a huge effect on these young people and their families. Where we used to serve after-school snacks and sometimes dinner, we now serve dinner every evening to an increasing number of youth.
Almost 300 teens came to the Center last year to receive homework help, supervised recreation, work-shops, help with drafting resumes and filling out college applications. The Teen Center emphases finishing high school and aspiring to college - 90% of our teens have stayed in school.
