EP #21 Rebuilding the Village: How GAD Youth Center Supports Teens

What happens when childcare ends at age 12? For most families, it creates a critical supervision gap during the most challenging years of adolescence. Meet Arline Gause, the visionary behind GAD Youth Center, who's tackling this problem head-on in Spotsylvania County.After 22 years as a military spouse with 13 relocations, Arline witnessed firsthand how difficult transitions impact young people. Watching her children struggle with new schools, curriculum differences, and social challenges taught her the importance of creating a supportive community. "It was the village we created and surrounded them with that helped them become who and what they are today," Arline explains. This experience birthed GAD's mission: rebuilding and redefining the village needed to raise the next generation.GAD Youth Center serves adolescents aged 12-16 through six innovative programs: academic support, college prep, career assessment, culinary skills, life training, and health/wellness. Unlike typical recreational centers, GAD helps youth develop individualized plans for their futures, connecting them with job shadowing opportunities and teaching essential life skills. While searching for a permanent location, GAD has partnered with Hope Presbyterian Church to launch summer workshops running Wednesdays from June 11th through July 23rd. These pilot programs will feature inspiring speakers, meals, and transportation assistance.For parents concerned about cost, structure, or logistics, GAD has thoughtfully addressed these challenges. The center plans to become an official school bus stop once permanently established, solving transportation worries for working parents. Ready to support this vital community resource? Visit www.gad-youth.com to learn more, register for summer programs, or volunteer your time and talents to help build the village our youth desperately need.Arline GauseGAD Youth [email protected]