Journey to Open a Youth Center

Описание: NEO is a non-profit organization in Grass Valley, CA that hosts about 70 New Events & Opportunities for youth each year with an average of 7,000 people attending total. Although NEO events provide a positive alternative and place to hang out for many teens, without a designated building for NEO, events are hosted in 25 different locations. This makes them inconsistent and interrupts the work put in to create a safe environment where youth feel comfortable. One of our main goals is to encourage youth to make healthy lifestyle choices by empowering them through positive activities. This means that we believe in the youth in our community and try to give them as many leadership roles as possible. Within NEO we have youth Dj's, dancers, musicians, volunteers, designers, models, technicians, and public speakers. We strive to engage youth in a positive way and teach them how to live a fun, healthy and active lifestyle. Right now most of our events take place on the weekends, but research shows that the hours between 3-6pm are the most dangerous times for youth in which they are more likely to engage in risky behaviors.

In order to really make a lasting change and impact in the community, NEO needs to be open every day after school and late on the weekends when youth need a safe place the most.

About a year ago, NEO began their journey to open a Youth Center in the community by assessing community needs, gaining youth input, creating a business plan, doing research, observing other youth programs and centers, becoming our own non-profit, presenting to potential partners, hosting youth center planning meetings for teens, and launching fundraising campaigns. We are dedicated and PASSIONATE about opening a safe, supportive and permanent center to engage youth of ALL interests and backgrounds while providing them with places to showcase their talents, explore their passions, and learn new skills. A place where relationships can be built and youth will have easy access to community resources. This is a dream but together we can make it reality.

No matter where you live you CAN make a positive change. Donations can be made online at NCNEO.COM and if you live locally you can also get involved by donating your time and skills. It Takes a VILLAGE!