Message to Parents/Guardians

Dear Parents and/or Guardians,

We would like to take the time to provide additional information about the youth center staff and programs. We hope this information will ensure your support of the youth center and that we will continue to see your child throughout his/her middle school years! The youth center has well trained staff who interact with the kids and provide a safe environment. One staff member is always present at the facility during middle school hours. On a daily basis the kids can come and hang out with their friends, watch movies, use the computer lab, play video games, and participate in many other activities. The youth center also has special events or activities that your child can participate in such as lock-ins, community service activities, and field trips. The youth center also provides concessions with a variety of snack foods and beverages available for purchase. We want to let you know our policies here at the YC so you know what to expect when your child attends. We hope that you will discuss these policies with your child and contact us with any questions or concerns.

Drop-in Policy

The YC is a drop-in program which means that the kids can come and go as they please during our regular hours. If you prefer that your child stay at the YC the entire time they are in attendance, you will need to communicate that to your child. Our staff cannot prevent a child from leaving. We can, however, remind them of your wishes if they want to leave.

Breaking-the-Rules Policy

We expect youth to treat the YC, staff, and other youth with respect. If behavior does not meet our expectation, youth are given a warning and required to do 10 push ups or sit ups. If a child develops a repeated pattern of poor choices, the staff will contact you to determine an appropriate consequence which may include a break from the YC, community service, or a letter of apology.

Outside Policy

The kids can be outside in the designated areas. While they are outside they must be following YC rules. If staff can see youth while the staff is standing on YC property, the youth have to follow the YC rules. This is because, the YC is located in a residential neighborhood and all the youth around our facility constantly represent the YC.

Telephone Policy

The kids can use the phone for a maximum of 2 minutes to contact parents.

It should also be noted that the YC is a drug and alcohol free zone where kids can feel safe and supported. Staff are committed to positive youth development and will do everything they can to help your child develop a healthy self-image and enjoy their adolescent years.

We feel that the youth center will benefit from open communication with parents and/or guardians. Please call or stop in to introduce yourself, as we welcome your suggestions, questions, and concerns. You can also feel free to contact us at (608) 437-6780 or by email at kidskick@mhtc.net. We are striving to make the center a positive environment that you support and your child enjoys. For more information about are programs visit our website at www.mthorebyc.net.

Sincerely,