BY BTL STAFF
FERNDALE – The Affirmations Youth Drop-In Center will hold an open house at 6 p.m. on Sept. 18 for all LGBT and ally youth.
The Carl Rippberger Youth Drop-In Center was shut down in the past month to allow for other youth directed programs to strengthen and develop. However, the newly appointed manager of youth programs, Lilianna Angel Reyes, wanted to reengage adult LGBT allies and encourage more programming, such as reopening the Youth Drop-In Center.
"Come join us for a fun night at the open house that launches the new invigorating Drop-In Center," Reyes said.
The Drop-In Center is a space for youth ages 13-20 to come during weekend hours and spend time watching movies, engaging in discussion and being with their peers in a safe and affirming space. According to Reyes, anywhere from five to 50 youth utilize the drop-in center resources every week, many more so during the fall and winter months.
The open house will provide youth opportunities to learn, grow, socialize and have fun while enjoying the sounds of DJ Tone, snow cones, raffle prizes for local businesses and snacks, treats and non-alcoholic beverages that will be provided by Whole Foods Market.
The new Drop-In Center will be open from 4-9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Affirmations will launch an intake system in January, conduct personal referrals and implement other programming steered by the youth including board game nights and arts and crafts nights.
