Green River residents welcomed a new addition to their town on Aug. 12. The Pirates Den Teen Center officially opened its doors and welcomed local youth.
The project started at the beginning of summer when teen center coordinator Kathy Brady took on the task of remodeling the facility. With assistance from local residents and business donations, the building quickly transformed into an inviting space for youth to hang out at.
“The main goal of the center is to provide a place for teens to hang out, free of drugs and alcohol,” explained Brady. “This will be a place where they can come and have fun as well as study and get help with homework.”
Children grades 7-12 are welcome to visit the center after school, Monday through Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m. “We do not allow outside drinks,” Brady explained. “Instead, through grant money, we provide beverages and snacks for the kids. We will also make sure that at least two adults are here anytime the center is open.”
Green River teachers will provide homework assistance to students at the teen center. The TnT (Teens and Teachers) program will pair students and educators together to improve grades and study habits. TnT will take place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m.
Although the youth center is geared toward junior and senior high students, the facility is also available for parties and events. “We will take reservations for parties,” explained Brady. “We want to make sure that the entire community enjoys the facility.”
Lined with an air hockey, ping pong and foosball table, the center also has a cozy area for studying. “We want this to be a place that kids feel comfortable in while providing several different services,” the facility coordinator stated. A small kitchen complete with a popcorn machine is also available for use.
Donations and grant money made the center possible. Since Pirates Den is a non-profit entity, community support has played a large role. “We have had lots of people working hard to get this place in shape,” Brady stated. “We have transformed this space into a fun hang out in a short amount of time. I am so thankful for everyone who has helped or donated to the center.” Because further improvements need to be made, volunteers are still in demand.
For more information or volunteer/donate to the teen center, contact Brady at (801) 318-8152 or grcheer@gmail.com.
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- Construction photos courtesy of Kathy Brady.
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- Pirates Den sponsors.
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- A look at the teen center’s transformation.
