It’s hard to believe Alive has been open for 10 years. From one small space to three growing centers (and more to come), we’ve welcomed over 8,000 unique teens and counted 85,000+ visits. We’ve seen confidence build, friendships form, and lives transformed.
As we celebrate this milestone, here’s what we’ve learned along the way:
Teens Need Us – Now More Than Ever
Mental health challenges are rising fast. Teens today face pressures from an overwhelming world. More than ever, they need real connection, not just screens.
Let Them Lead
When teens are trusted to lead, they rise. They don’t need us hovering, they need us believing in them, guiding when needed, and giving them space to grow.
Prevention Starts with Connection
Supporting mental health starts with connection. The CDC puts it best:
“Teens are resilient… and we know what works, feeling connected to others, schools, and family.”
At Alive, we see it daily: a laugh, a moment of trust, a place to feel seen.
Safe Spaces Make a Difference
Our after-school spaces are more than hangouts, they’re protective. Teens find support, build friendships, and form healthy habits in a space that feels safe and welcoming.
Inclusion Matters
When teens feel like they truly belong, they thrive. That means making sure LGBTQ+ youth, kids with disabilities, and teens from all backgrounds feel welcomed, respected, and valued. Accessibility-physical and digital-is essential.
Structure Builds Trust
Teens want freedom, but they also need clear expectations. At Alive, boundaries are built on respect, not control. We lead with consistency and compassion, modeling accountability so teens can grow into it too.
We Love What We Do
These 10 years have shown us just how powerful connection, belonging, and youth leadership can be. And we’re just getting started.
Interested in bringing an Alive Center to your area?
Reach out to us at cai@alivecenter.org.