Activities for Teens in Norristown

There's no secret that the reason behind teen dropout, violence, pregnancy, etc. are a direct result of a lack of programs for the younger generation. Think about it. How many Summer camps accept students past age 13? How many after school programs are available for middle/high school that don't involve sports? You can name a few, but that's because there is only a few. After 2:30pm, there is nothing for a teen to do. Studies have shown that a lack of after school programs result in the negative things I mentioned earlier. If we want Norristown's future to shine bright and reduce crime  around town, we need to change this statistic.

The main step in fixing this problem is to create programs for youth. Simple! There are so many non-profits in Norristown and if each of them try to create one program, it's making a difference. Having large numbers in your program doesn't really matter. The fact that you have at least one teen in your program, you are making a difference for that individual. The Norristown Project has teamed up with our lead organization, Montgomery County Opportunities Industrialization Center, to bring back Norristown Youth Development Coalition(NYDC). NYDC is a program for teens ages 12-18 who wish to be a part of the creative process in creating programs and activities formatted for teens in Norristown. Meetings will take place beginning in November on each Thursday from 5-7pm at the OIC building at 1101 Arch Street. The program is free for all students and there is no obligation to attend each week. However, once you realize how great this leadership program is, you would want to come back each week! Teens in NYDC will have special trips to colleges/universities, sporting events, and other field trips. Also, there will be opportunities where NYDC will create a volunteer project to host each month to improve conditions around Norristown (that's where TNP steps in). For more information on how to join, call (610) 279-9700 or email info@montcooic.org 

So parents, I challenge you to have your teen child join this program. Teens, I encourage you to join a group of your peers working to make Norristown the place to be. Bring your friends with you each week and invite them to bring friends. Norristown will not change for the better unless YOU become involved in activities around town.

We look forward to seeing you soon!