News from the Director

The Kingswood Youth Center (KYC) is off to a great start with amazing programs and 152 members to date! Since opening in September, the KYC kids are frequently seen traveling around in the KYC bus, visiting places such as the Lakes Region Humane Society, Albee Beach, The Nick Recreational Park, and Camp Sentinel.  Quite often they are enroute to one of the many local hiking trails, ablaze with color this time of year. They have also been learning the importance of volunteerism by helping out at KYC's annual Chili Challenge, working on the Wolfeboro Community Garden, and volunteering at the Brown's Ridge Farm.

The programs at KYC are designed to offer something for everyone with activities that include: cooking, arts and crafts, science, woodworking, music, recreation, nature and wildlife, and more. Having fun, socializing with friends and learning new things is what KYC is all about!

Teens are facing difficult times in New Hampshire today. The KYC staff provides support and encouragement for those that may be facing challenging life circumstances. I am proud to say that last year we offered 100 additional hours of programs, at no cost, for teens during that critical out-of-school time.  These programs were so successful, often times filling to capacity.  This year we are striving to keep our doors open an additional 125 hours to accommodate those that need a place to go between school and home.  

 

I appreciate the privilege of serving as Executive Director of an organization that offers so much to our local youth.

 

Pam Sweeney

The KYC is proud to support Red Ribbon Week as one of the many things we do to combat substance abuse. The Red Ribbon is a symbol of one's commitment to a life free from drugs. This year's Red Ribbon Week Slogan was: "Your future is key, so stay drug free!" 

Sue, one of our volunteers, works with KYC members on our Red Ribbon poster

Dear Friend,

 

             It is a smell that carries so many warm memories . . . fresh roasting turkey! That is what filled the air as twenty-one high school and middle school students entered the Kingswood Youth Center (KYC) on the afternoon of our annual Thanksgiving dinner. Students, staff, and volunteers worked together to prepare all the classic fixings.

 

            Before dinner, students participated in a KYC tradition; each member shared one thing for which they were thankful. The things they were thankful for were not material things. They also were not trivial things. They were thankful for friends, family, food, a roof over their head, and the KYC.

 

We were touched by the fact that so many expressed thanks for the KYC's programs; an amazing indicator of the strides we are making in our mission to serve local youth.

 

            Teens that reside in our rural communities face unique challenges. Those who do not participate in extra-curricular activities are at risk for isolation from peers and caring adults. Our community's substance abuse problems have reached epidemic levels. Carroll County is consistently one of the most impacted counties in a state that leads the nation in terms of substance abuse. Students from all backgrounds rely on the support of a caring community to help ensure their success as adults. Research consistently indicates that structured out-of-school programs contribute to academic success, social development, and individual fulfillment.

The KYC is here to serve our community's teens.

 

            The KYC offers educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities. Activities focus on the message of 'healthy choices' while teaching life skills helpful to youth as they approach adulthood. Diverse programs such as: woodworking, arts and crafts, cooking, music, community service, science and nature, outdoor fitness, leadership, and more keep kids interested and engaged.

 

            As a response to the growing needs of our constituents, we increased our services by offering programs on evenings, school holidays, and over the summer. All programs are accomplished on a very limited budget. Thinking back to the simple and humble statements of gratitude made at our Thanksgiving meal provides us with an amazing reminder of why we do what we do.

We need your help now to continue offering our vital services.

 

            There are many ways your donation can help the KYC continue meeting the growing needs of our community's youth population. Our mission depends on your support. The KYC is a 501(c) 3 organization and all donations are tax deductible.

 

Thank You and Happy Holidays,

 

The KYC Board of Directors, Staff, and Youth Members

 

  Donate Now! 

There are many ways to get involved with the KYC

~ Volunteer weekly for our after-school program

~ Volunteer to teach a skill or lead an activity to our members

~ Donate clothing for 12-18 year olds

~ Donate homemade food, gift cards, art supplies

~ Sponsor us monetarily

~ Help with grounds-keeping 

The KYC is a 501(c) non-profit organization. Therefore, your donation is tax deductible.