A Safe Space, A Stronger Future
What happens when teens are given a space where they feel safe, heard, and supported? In Chester, Vermont, the answer has been newfound confidence, connection, and growth.
In the wake of the 2023 floods, many families in the Black River region faced new levels of hardship—from unstable housing to food insecurity and a lack of reliable youth services. In May 2024, with the support of a $20,000 flood recovery grant made possible by VCF fundholders, the Black River Area Community Coalition (BRACC) brought a new vision to life: a teen center that could offer not just afterschool activities, but a true sense of belonging and stability.
"I like the teen center because it's a reason to get out of the house, I get to see my friends, the adults are really cool, and I feel like I can just relax and be myself. The teen center is like another home to me." - 9th Grade Program Participant
What began as a small group of just seven teens has now grown into a thriving program with over 90 participants from Chester, Andover, Ludlow, Cavendish, Grafton, Bellows Falls, and Springfield. Today, the center welcomes 20–30 teens daily for drop-in hours, field trips, special events, enrichment opportunities, and most importantly, a space where they can truly be their authentic selves.
With VCF funding, BRACC was able to provide essentials like meals and snacks, hygiene products, art supplies, games, and sports equipment. The grant also helped them hire their first part-time staff member, which became crucial as attendance began to surge.
"Since I started coming to the teen center last year, it's been really cool to see kids who are normally quiet and shy show up and come out of their shell, be outgoing, and get comfortable making new friends." - 8th Grade Program Participant
More than a space to gather, the teen center has become a vital part of the community’s recovery and resilience. For working parents, it’s a dependable support system. For teens, it’s a consistent, welcoming environment where they can be themselves, form positive connections, and take part in shaping the programs around them.
Looking ahead, BRACC is finalizing renovations for a permanent home, expanding program hours, and deepening its offerings. The seed funding from VCF fundholders helped launch something truly powerful, and its ripple effects are only growing.
Inspired by this story of young people finding safety and belonging?
When neighbors invest in one another, Vermont’s young people flourish. By opening a donor advised fund with the Vermont Community Foundation, you can help nurture safe, welcoming spaces where youth and communities grow stronger together. Let’s build Vermont’s future, one act of generosity at a time.
