Pueblo partnership collaborates to create safe teen hangout

(PUEBLO, Colo) — The City of Pueblo and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo County are joining forces for the second year in a row to provide a safe and positive space for teens to socialize this summer.

“The Loft,” is a space created for adolescents by both agencies. The space is open on Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. This year, The Loft will move between the Senior Resource Development Agency (SRDA) building near the Riverwalk, the south side Sprague Clubhouse, and the Ray Aguilera Teen Center at Central High School.

The program will begin Friday, June 7, and be available until Saturday, August 3.

“This opportunity is for incoming freshmen to upcoming seniors,” said Site Director Selina Valdez. “The teens can earn workforce certifications such as CPR/First Aid, Teen Mental Health First Aid, and Food Safety and more. We will have skill-based activities, arts & crafts, and physical fitness opportunities. We also have transportation to explore Pueblo and beyond with activities and field trips. The best part is that it’s free for teens”

The teen-centered space is free to high school students each weekend and is funded by the support of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars allocated by the Pueblo City Council. Overall, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo has helped teens for more than 52 years and served 256 teen members in 2023.

“The City of Pueblo is happy to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo County for their teen nights during the summer of 2024,” said Mayor of Pueblo Heather Graham. “The Loft was piloted last year, and we are looking forward to seeing this opportunity grow for our youth in Pueblo, so we have more safe, fun spaces for our teens to enjoy on weekend nights. The Loft is a great use of American Rescue Plan Act dollars and supporting our teens, families, and community of Pueblo.”

Registration for The Loft can be completed in person or online .

For more information about the program, call Selina at (719)-920-8809.

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