The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center, the Canton Township center for tweens and teens ages 11 to 17, is celebrating the 20th anniversary this year, as the thousands of youngsters who have come through the doors since 2001 are remembered.
In an ongoing effort to shine the spotlight on what the B.L.O.C.K. has meant to past participants and staff, testimonials will be collected throughout the year and posted online at www.facebook.com/Block YouthTeenCenter.
“It has been an honor and privilege to be in the position to encourage and empower area youth through the years and to hear from past participants just how impactful their experience at the B.L.O.C.K. has been,” said Laura Mortier, Canton recreation specialist. “BLOCK staff works hard to prepare Canton's youth for life's challenges by teaching critical life skills such as teamwork, communication, work ethic, and respect, so this year is a great time to reflect on these accomplishments.”
Designed to inspire the next generation, B.L.O.C.K. programs range from B.L.O.C.K. and Beyond After School programming; leadership programs, such as Youth Advisory Council, Lead #LikeAGirl, and Be A #ModelMan; Community Youth Connection, a community outreach program and more.
In commemoration of two decades of service to Canton teens, the B.L.O.C.K. has unveiled a new logo that was selected by teen members and staff that embodies the youthful energy and ubiquitous staple of all participants - a commemorative backpack. The celebration will continue all year long for B.L.O.C.K. participants with membership appreciation events and special activities. Community members can watch for an invitation to attend a special 'BLOCK party' this fall to mark this milestone.
The B.L.O.C.K. (Building Leaders Out of Canton's Kids) Youth & Teen Center, which continues to impact more than 200 students each year in a safe and supervised environment, is located on the third floor of the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road. For more information about The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center, visit www.cantonfun.org/146 or call (734) 398-5570.
