New Hope For Youth: Teen Center

Stockton, CA — Friday, September 16th the Gary and Janice Podesto Teen Impact Center (The Podesto Teen IMPACT Center) cut the ribbon as the facility is under new management — The Family Resource and Referral Agency.

"We are extremely excited about our opportunity to manage the Podesto Teen IMPACT Center," stated Tony Washington, Family Resource & Referral Centers Public Relations Manager. Simultaneously young adults are eager to return to the center, "It’s great that the Teen Center is re-opening," said Shawn Cruz, lead person of Pack A Punch (PAP) a break dancing group of Stockton which competes statewide and among the eight U.S. western states.

During the hot summer days, Pack A Punch, has been practicing in garages without air conditioning or out in the street. "We sometimes come out and practice at, De Carly Plaza [downtown Stockton] but the Stockton PD complain about the music," explained Cruz that often they are asked to leave the plaza.

The Podesto Teen IMPACT Center is an 18,000 square feet building owned by the City of Stockton and operated by the Family Resource and Referral. The building is a $3.6 million, 1940’s restored bowling alley which opened its doors in 2002. Since its opening the facility has had a sparse participation a trend the Family Resource and Referral hopes it will change. "The community already has shown their willingness to support us as we strive to make the facility a safe , fun and engaging place for our cites teens to call their own," said Washington. During its inauguration Apollo Nights, a local talent show event kicked off their auditions for the competition scheduled for 2012.

The Teen Center will be open during the week between 2:00 to 9:00 PM with some minor variations depending on the day. The facility offers a computer room and afterschool homework tutoring programs; additionally, cultural activities, workshops, theatre and music and fitness activities will be scheduled. "We already submitted our application in hopes to return to practice at the Center," said Cruz.

Presently the Family Resource and Referral agency will be accepting nominations and will be hosting an election to form the new Teen Advisory Board. If you wish to learn more about the Podesto IMPACT Teen Center and its services you may call (209) 948-1553.■

Bilingual Weekly Newspaper
www.bilingualweekly.com
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94 W. CASTLE STREET SUITE A
STOCKTON, CA 95204
1(209) 910-3184

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