Youths Join New Center By The Dozens

About 75 children have joined a new East Central Campus Life Center that opened on East Fifth Avenue two weeks ago.

The center provides recreation, tutors, computer access and adult supervision three days a week.

“We are giving them a place to go that is safe,” said Rick Kienholz, director of the Youth for Christ organization, which is sponsoring the center.

The facility is housed in an old commercial building, on Fifth between Fiske and Haven streets, that was remodeled.

A grand opening celebration on Sept. 4 drew about 130 people from the neighborhood.

Kienholz said there is still room for more children, and volunteers are needed.

Children must join the center and comply with its rules so they can participate in activities under a program called Positive Activities for Awesome Kids.

Membership rules offer a measure of control and a safe environment.

Kienholz said one of the goals is to provide children positive relationships with adults.

The center has five part-time paid staff members who are juniors and seniors in college, majoring in education or religious studies.

For elementary-age children, the Thursday sessions are from 3 to 8:30 p.m. Friday sessions are from 3 to 6 p.m., and Saturday periods from 2 to 6 p.m.

For junior high students, programs run from 6 to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

, DataTimes MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: VOLUNTEER OPENINGS Anyone interested in volunteering should call Youth for Christ at 482-7366.