Mary’s Center understands that teen years can be tumultuous and that many youth face challenges that hinder their ability to succeed. Our Teen After-School Program provides a haven for teens, helping them cultivate healthy habits, excel academically, and develop into well-rounded individuals who practice the value of respect. This foundational principle creates an environment where teens feel safe, supported, and encouraged to express themselves.  

What sets Mary’s Center apart is its integrated approach to addressing the myriad barriers teens face in their lives. By providing a supportive community, teens are not alone on their journey. The collaborative efforts of the dedicated staff, family support workers, and external partnerships ensure that all aspects of a teen’s life are considered—from education and health to emotional and social well-being. This after-school program is a lifeline for many young people facing complex challenges.  

We have seen this play out over the years at Mary’s Center. Ana Alvarez, whose own mother was a teenager when she was born, started high school in the US as a Spanish-speaking migrant with a fourth-grade education. She was told by a Mary’s Center counselor that she could earn a college scholarship, but drawing from her own mother’s story, she knew… “If I get pregnant, I’m not going to college”. Nevertheless, through the teen program, she learned the importance of discipline and perseverance and by following these principles, she ultimately graduated high school at age 20 with a college scholarship — neither a teen, nor a parent. She did marry shortly before giving birth at 23, and the baby did slow down her higher educational progress, but she persisted. While working two jobs, she took six years to earn a bachelor’s degree, but she made it. Today, she is a Mary’s Center employee who supports patients with cancer diagnosis. 

This program stands as a testament to the power of community support in shaping a healthier, brighter future for our youth. As the program continues to evolve it remains focused on its mission to create a nurturing environment where every young person can feel safe and valued. By addressing real-world issues head-on and equipping teens with the skills and knowledge they need, Mary’s Center not only helps our youth excel academically but also inspires them to become compassionate and resilient individuals. Like Herman, who came from Cameroon with determined to get into college. With the help of the teen program, his hard work secured him that scholarship and he recently graduated from Penn State with a degree in Public Health. 

The program addresses a wide range of topics relevant to youth, including domestic violence, an issue that often goes unspoken among teens. Through tactful discussions and one-on-one services with experienced family support workers, teens learn how to identify unhealthy situations and seek help. In partnership with the Department of Justice, Mary’s Center not only addresses domestic violence but also educates teens on the dangers of fentanyl and the legal ramifications of substance use. This multifaceted approach ensures that teens are well-informed and empowered to make safe choices in their lives. Lastly, Mary’s Center also provides our young adults with regular check-ups and health screenings, STI/HIV testing and a variety of interactive forums that allow teens to engage in conversations that impact their lives directly and empower them to make informed decisions. By fostering a culture of respect, Mary’s Center equips young people with the social and emotional skills necessary to build positive relationships, both now and in the future.