Social Skills

This specific topic more times than not is the result of all teen struggles-academics, drugs, mental disorders, etc. Teenagers are so impressionable and long to feel accepted whether that be in their homes or at school. It is during the adolescent years that young people learn how to form and build healthy relationships with parents, authority figures, friends, and the opposite gender. Although peers play a significant role in the identity formation of adolescents, it is relationships with adults-parents or caregivers, mentors, or coaches-that are the building blocks for all other relationships.[1] In today’s society, the core of a child’s making, the home, has drastically changed. Thus, children are often left with caregivers, grandparents, or mentors. This is a huge responsibility that is being delegated out. No place will replace the home. Yet, there needs to be places that can and will help guide children to healthy, successful adult living. 

The TORCH Teen Center wants to be that place-the place that offers the potentiality for healthy relationships and guidance into society. As previously stated, the core of the center is the Word of God and pointing children to Christ. Secondly, it aims to be a place that teens can find lasting relationships, both with peers and adults. It strives to be a place of refuge and hope. The staff will lead and encourage teenagers to form healthy relationships by being the ultimate example.

It will offer a game room and lounge area for young people to intermingle and socialize. The center also would like to offer a full-size gymnasium to host different events focused on teenagers. A volunteer program will also be put in place for young people to work together to better our community through a variety of means.

[1] Healthy relationships in adolescence: HHS Office of Population Affairs. OPA Office of Population Affairs. (n.d.). Retrieved November 22, 2022, from https://opa.hhs.gov/adolescent-health/healthy-relationships-adolescence