Youth 360: Teen Summer Programs and Much More
Contributed by Tyler Healy
Youth 360 is preparing for their 6th summer program serving Mat-Su teens. This year’s program will feature new locations, expanded transportation options and a wide variety of activities and connection opportunities for Mat-Su youth.
Youth 360 started in 2019 as a collaborative project designed to provide activities and healthy outlets for local youth. After-school programs, summer programs, activity scholarships and special events offered by Youth 360 provide safe, supportive environments for teens to spend time, opportunities to build skills and explore interests, and connections with their community and friends. Since that time, over 1,500 youth have participated, and the programs have expanded to new locations and activities.
The 2024 summer program will be the first with three locations: Houston High School, Houston Middle School, and a community-based Wasilla location at 501 E. Bogard Road. Nine weeks of activities will be offered, with programs running from June 3rd-August 1st. Programs are open Monday through Thursday from 12-5 pm. All Mat-Su teens entering 6th-12th grade can sign up. Youth can attend on any schedule they choose. Two-way transportation routes and food are provided, and there is no cost to families. Expanded transportation options this summer will include the Willow and Upper Susitna areas, in addition to a Palmer shuttle and continued service in the greater Wasilla and Houston/Big Lake areas.
Each day of the Youth 360 summer and after-school programs provides regular routines designed to build friendships between participants, in addition to structured activities including sports and games, art, music, outdoor recreation, youth leadership opportunities, cooking, and much more. Field trips and outings will also be provided. Youth can give their feedback about what they’d like to see at the program and choose between varied activities.
Participants in Youth 360’s Houston after-school programs recently shared some thoughts about their experiences at Youth 360. According to one attendee, “It’s a great place to go to hang out with friends. Great talks and great times.” Other youth shared some thoughts on the support they receive at the program. “The staff are really cool. They help you no matter what. They will never judge you, and they’re hard workers”. “Every day I come to Youth 360 I feel loved,” said another regular youth participant.
Youth 360 staff members also expressed gratitude for the program and the opportunity to work with local teens. Madeline Emmi, Youth 360 Houston manager, says “I have had the absolute honor and privilege of serving these students for the last four years. We get to enjoy the little things together, and they are by far the most loving students I have ever met in my life.” Courtney Smith, Youth Engagement Specialist, agreed. “Being able to see the kids’ smiling faces every day just means the world to me. It makes me feel so lucky that I have a job that I can look forward to.”
There are two upcoming opportunities for visiting Youth 360. On Saturday, April 27th there will be a program showcase held at Youth 360’s Wasilla location, behind Good Shepherd Lutheran Church at 501 E Bogard Rd., Wasilla. Youth, families, and community members are invited to attend from 11 am-2 pm to enjoy food, entertainment, interactive activities and more. The event is designed to give families an opportunity to experience some of the activities and routines that youth enjoy daily at Youth 360. Additionally, on Saturday, May 11th, Youth 360 will be at the Houston High School baseball fields starting at 11 am providing food, games, prizes and more. All are welcome to come out, check out the program and meet Youth 360 staff and participants before the Houston-Colony baseball game that afternoon.
Youth 360 loves serving the youth of the Mat-Su Valley and is excited for another great summer program this year! Learn more or sign up for the programs at www.youth-360.org or by calling 373-3613.