Pueblo Partnership Collaborates to Create Safe Hangout for Teens

(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, positive space for teens to socialize this summer.

“The Loft” is a space created for teenagers by the two agencies. The space is open 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 Sprague Clubhouse on the south side, and the Ray Aguilera Teen Center at Central High School.

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

“This opportunity is for incoming freshmen and upcoming seniors,” said Site Director Selina Valdez. “Teens can earn workforce certifications such as CPR/First Aid, Adolescent Mental Health First Aid, Food Safety and more. We will offer skills-based activities, arts and crafts, and fitness opportunities. We also have transportation to explore Pueblo and beyond with activities and excursions. 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 with support from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars allocated by the Pueblo City Council. Overall, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo has been helping teens for over 52 years and has served 256 teen members in 2023.

“The City of Pueblo is pleased to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo County for their Teen Nights during the summer of 2024,” said Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham. “The Loft was piloted last year and we look forward to seeing this opportunity grow for our Pueblo youth to provide safer, fun spaces for our teens to enjoy on weekend evenings.” The Loft is a great use of American Rescue Plan Act dollars and supports our teens, families and the Pueblo community.

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

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