Interview with Zachary Porter, Executive Director, The Kingswood Youth Center (KYC)
What is your organization’s mission?
To provide a safe, positive environment in which youth may grow, learn, and develop important life skills that are critical to their success in the adult world.
Who do you serve within the Greater Lakes Region? And through what programs and services do you serve them?
We offer free out-of-school programs for students in grades seven through twelve in the seven towns that comprise the Governor Wentworth Regional School District, offering various opportunities for teens to explore interests, build positive relationships, learn new skills, and have fun. The center works with families to improve students’ lives and prepare them for the future. Our after-school program includes a hot meal, transportation from school, and diverse learning and socialization opportunities. We also have programs that provide engagement during school vacations, evenings, and weekends; a summer program; an individual mentoring program; and a food pantry that provides fresh produce, meats, pantry items, and household essentials to the families of teens.
How do you impact peoples’ lives?
The Kingswood Youth Center interacts with a diverse group of students in ways that allow staff members, volunteers, and other community members to address students’ unique emergent needs and interests. Students who attend our programs show greater confidence, which has led to many positive outcomes and the attainment of personal goals. Exposure to new things, adult mentors, and inspiration from peers has led to students exploring new interests, exploring career paths, attaining part-time employment, and reaching other personal goals.
How has funding from the Greater Lakes Children’s Auction benefited your organization?
The Children’s Auction’s investments in our programs have allowed us to reach teens and adapt our services during the pandemic.
What kind of feedback do you get from those you serve?
Teens who come to the center repeatedly state that they come for fun, good food, and, most importantly, the friendships. During the COVID-19 pandemic, several participants stated that the center was their only social outlet. This is significant because the sense of community and belonging is among the most important adolescent developmental needs. Parents and guardians repeatedly state that their teens’ confidence, moods, and social skills improve due to their participation in KYC programs.
Please tell us a story about an impact you had on a child or a family that was transformative.
This past school year, one of our valued community partners, Carroll County Coalition for Public Health, shared information about an upcoming art contest, and one of our middle schoolers enthusiastically took advantage of the opportunity. Her mentor served as her advisor/sponsor. Her hard work paid off, and this student was one of just ten statewide winners. Our entire group attended the virtual celebration, during which she was surprised to learn that she’d won. Without any preparation, she voluntarily spoke to her peers about her writing process and mental health realities. Our students were impressed by her example. She showed them that hard work can pay off and that middle schoolers can be leaders. Students around the state have heard her positive message concerning mental health.
Interview done by Janice Beetle Books.
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