MENTAL HEALTH & SUICIDE PREVENTION
HOPE SQAUD
18 South Youth Center is the first community youth center in the world to offer Hope Squad, our peer-to-peer suicide prevention program. Through this program we teach teenagers QPR, an evidence-based suicide prevention method, encourage mental wellness and mindfulness, advocate for people struggling with mental health issues to get the help needed, promote healthy community, and to be a proponent of anti-bullying online and in the community.
THE LANDING
We are excited to announce that we will be launching The Landing: Celebrate Recovery for teens in 2025! Celebrate Recovery is for EVERYONE! No one should have to face their pain alone. The Landing will be a grace-filled community of strugglers who courageously enter this safe and beautiful space to get honest about our pain, and the negative ways we may see ourselves, God, and others. In this process, we come to accept that some of the habits we have developed to escape our pain may have hurt us and those close to us. It is a biblically based approach to help us achieve long lasting recovery by healing our hurts, guiding us toward new healthy truths, and developing life-giving habits.
Stay tuned for our launch date!
FUTURE PLANNING & EDUCATION
S.T.E.A.M.
Creative, Innovative, and Fun ways to explore STEAM activities throughout the year! Programs, clubs, and trips center on inspiring young people to grow in order to change the world! CLICK HERE for upcoming STEAM Activities
WHERE WE GOING WEDNESDAYS
SUMMER PROGRAM ONLY
The highlight of our Summer Programs; every Wednesday during the summer we take students to a new place or for a new experience. Many students may not have the opportunity to travel or visit places where cost may be prohibitive. We believe in the need for young people to have experiences and see new places. CLICK HERE for a schedule of 2025 events and registrations.
THE TABLE
The Table is a safe place for those of all faith and non-faith backgrounds to come and explore what it is they believe, to bring their doubts and questions, and to discuss what the Bible has to say about their lives. We believe and teach the love of Jesus Christ, the authority of Scripture, and the call to make disciples. We also believe that all people are created by God and are worthy of love and dignity. All are welcome.
ART CLUB
At 18 South, we are passionate about art and dedicated to nurturing young artists. Art Club offers a dynamic environment for students in grades 7-12 to explore various art mediums and develop their artistic skills. We are thrilled to provide access to high-quality art supplies and expert guidance, helping students transform their creative ideas into stunning works of art. Art Club meets weekly on Wednesdays and plans trips to art related experiences throughout the year.
OUTDOOR CLUB
Astronomy, Geology, Photography, Foraging, Primitive Skills, and more! Coming in 2025!
BOARD GAME CLUB
We love games! While our extensive board game library is available daily, we hold after-hours board game nights periodically throughout the year. Ranging from party-style games to strategic 3 hour+ games, we use play to engage students in critical thinking skills and problem solving.
DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS
Fridays: 6-9pm (One Shots and Beginner Campaigns)
Fridays: 9pm-12am (Ongoing Campaign)
We strongly believe in the power of imagination and play. We run Dungeons and Dragons RPG games on a weekly basis as a way for students to connect and work on essential skills like creative problem-solving, teamwork, innovation, and strategic thinking.
MUSIC
Our Music room is open to students daily. Equipped with all kinds of instruments and equipment, we strongly encourage music as a healthy expression for young people. Staff are currently available for free beginner level guitar and bass instruction. We also host a variety of Music Events throughout the year including Live Shows from young musicians and bands, and workshops.
MEETING BASIC NEEDS
A HEALTHY COMMUNITY
We work hard to maintain a safe space for everyone. As one of our core beliefs is unbiased compassion, 18 South Youth Center exists for every teen regardless of their background, status, or situation. We firmly believe people are stronger together and that community is vital to basic human needs.
A COMPASSIONATE FAMILY
Many of our students call 18 South Youth Center their second home. Under the care and direction of our adult staff and mentors, students learn daily how to exist, cope with, and serve others in their community. We help them problem-solve, work through emotions, and learn to navigate life’s challenges together.
A SAFE PLACE FOR EVERYONE
Open five days a week, 18 South Youth Center offers a safe space for students to connect under the supervision of caring adults who desire to see them succeed. The space itself serves as a proven deterrent from reckless or potentially dangerous behaviors by keeping young people engaged in healthy activities instead of aimlessly wandering the community. The center provides access to gaming systems, music and arts supplies and instruments, tabletop games, afterschool and cyber school homework assistance, free open Wi-Fi, and access to resources and opportunities uniquely provided by the center.
COMBATING TEEN HOMELESSNESS
We wish this problem did not exist. However, the reality is, teen homelessness is on the rise. We work with amazing organizations to combat this issue and work hard to make sure everyone has a safe place to call home.