City of College Station - Exit Teen Center
From RPTSWiki
Joseph Fraser
Intern, Summer 2007
Exit Teen Center
Organization Overview:
In 1998 the College Station city council sent out a survey to the College Station citizens concerning Parks and Recreation Department needs. An overwhelming response from the citizens was the need for teen programming. They created a Teen Board (TAB) to investigate possibilities for a teen center. After trying out several locations, it became apparent the teens wanted a place of their own. In 1999, they opened the doors of the EXIT Teen Center recognizing a need in the "at-risk" youth population. The term "at-risk" brings to mind visions of impoverished minorities starving for attention and care. Well, this is part of it, but there is so much more to this group. This population is now identified by inclusion of all youth ages 12-18. The center’s mission is to provide positive, structured leisure time for youth in their "off" hours. Our task then is to provide the "hook" to urge these kids to come in after school, in the evenings and on weekends to spend their free time with us. We have transitioned into programming for 6th through 9th graders only because of limited space and the undesired effect of mixing these ages.
Internship Position:
Job Description & Duties: I was responsible for the supervision of recreation activities for various Parks and Recreation Department programs, facilities, and events under the direction of a department supervisor. I also assisted with planning, organizing and implementing recreation programs. The qualifications are having experience working with youth and people of diverse backgrounds, the ability to work without supervision, and excellent interpersonal skills.
Benefits and Opportunities:
There were many benefits to working at the Exit.
- The pay for staff started at $7.00/hr.
- Staff go on trips with the children for free.
- Everyone goes swimming at least once a week.
- Gaining a unique perspective into the lives of "at-risk" youth.
- Keeping up with the kids is it's own aerobic exercise.
- Meals are provided for staff meetings.
- The children's lives are changed positively by your presence.
- An understanding of the innerworkings of a municipal parks and recreation department is gained.
- CPR/First Aid certification.
- Staff get to drive a sweet bus.
Contact Information:
Exit Teen Center
1600 Rock Prairie Rd
College Station, Tx, 77840
979-764-6351
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