Submitted by TOGETHER!
The local nonprofit, TOGETHER!, operates a drop-in center for youth at Evergreen Village Community Center in West Olympia. As a hub for children and families to access concrete supports, bond with healthy mentors, get academic tutoring and much more, the Center serves as a lifeline for many residents.
Due to limited funding, the organizations activities directed at teens are limited. The youth living in the complex are regularly exposed to crime, violence, and drug use and often lack positive adult role models. One example of this is an incident that took place on the night of Sunday, October 16. A group of 20+ teens were hanging out at a nearby park when a fight broke out. According to the police report, two knives were involved; there were multiple victims, resulting in several teens being transported to the hospital.
TOGETHER! believes that now more than ever, it is crucial that we come together as a community to show youth that violence is not the answer and that we care for and support them.
TOGETHER! is planning “Teen Nights” for the Center’s youth, but desperately needs support for this very needed venture. The teen nights will provide the Center’s at-risk teens with a safe, fun, and inviting space; positive role models; increased social skills; and nonviolent conflict-resolution skills. The first “Teen Night” will take place on November 18. With local business and individual support and contributions, this free event will include pizza, raffle prizes, and fun games/activities for youth 12-18.
Every dollar of support helps and is greatly appreciated! To contribute you can go to https://www.gofundme.com/togetherevcc or www.thurstontogether.org. TOGETHER! appreciates those that support this cause by investing in our youth and making the world a place where all youth can thrive. If you are interested in volunteering, being a sponsor or have any questions, please contact Johnna Knoerr, Program Director at 360-493-2230 ext. 11 or jknoerr@thurstontogether.org. Please help spread the word!
