Drop Ins


YOUTH RISING

DROP-INS

Our drop-ins are open to all youth ages 11-21 with hours and programs varying by age group. Drop-ins provide a safe, inclusive and stigma-aware space during critical hours of the day for transitional age youth. The age range each drop-in center serves depends on needs and gaps in each community we partner with. Most YR Drop-ins serve middle school and high school youth, whereas some serve young adults up to age 21.

When youth walk through our doors we aim to build trust while empowering them to gain life, leadership, and employable skills. YR Drop-ins are youth-led to empower and amplify the youth voice. We offer diverse activities including pool tables, foosball tables, karaoke, high tech computer labs, gaming systems, access to the arts (art supplies/workshops, guitars and piano/jam sessions), social nights, leadership opportunities, and career exploration. Some of our new up-and-coming drop-ins will offer free mixed martial arts (boxing, wrestling, jujitsu), yoga, etc.

Our Drop-ins are staffed by certified peer support specialists (Peer Advocates) who are young adults with lived experience committed to helping youth empower themselves and successfully transition into adulthood. Our programs and services help youth/young adults become leaders in their own lives and communities. We provide opportunities to build leadership and advocacy skills through team-based learning and activities. Above all, we provide a safe space for young people to feel heard, supported, and capable of creating change in their own lives and communities.

These services can be provided in a school environment or in a community setting at a local Youth Rising™ Drop-In.*

At YR Drop-ins, young people can:

  • Engage in leadership & support groups

  • Connect to community-based services

  • Study and get help on homework

  • Build a resume and cover letter or practice for job interviews

  • Participate in job internships in their community

  • Receive case management for safe and secure housing

  • Socialize with peers

  • Grab a free snack or meal

  • Play pool, Wii, foosball, etc.

  • Use the computer lab

  • Use guitars and other musical instruments for jam sessions

  • Watch movies

  • Attend Drop-in events

*We don’t operate Youth Rising™ community drop-Ins in every state we serve, but plan to expand in the near future. We do provide Youth Rising™ campus drop-ins at partnering schools.