The SOS Youth Activity Center, located at 2000 N. Spring, focuses on the special needs of youth 6 to 18 years old that live in the high-risk areas of Amarillo by providing positive alternatives to gangs and crime.  The project provides alternatives that include self-esteem building, community involvement, recreational activities, and volunteerism.

The SOS Center promotes values that result in reductions of criminal activities and gang involvement.  Youth are open to all forms of leadership, good and bad.  The staff of our center genuinely care for the youth and are highly motivated. Throughout all activities, the staff stress good values and consistently instructs the youth on socially appropriate behaviors.  The site maintains "zero tolerance” for gang clothing, behavior and profanity.  By teaching team work and "people skills" and promoting positive goals of education, a strong work ethic and commitment, we are steering youth away from criminal behavior, poor self-esteem, depression, and failure in life.  The end result of our efforts means that we are breaking the cycle of crime and poverty, while promoting education and vocational interests.  This will enable the youth of Amarillo to become the leaders of tomorrow

It is important to reach kids at a young age to help prevent some of the problems they will encounter as they become teenagers.  Developing high self-esteem and good character at a young age will positively affect the future of the Amarillo community.  Teaching kids healthy living habits through fun and educational activities provides a good foundation for the future.  It is so much harder for older youth to break bad habits than it is for a younger child to learn good ones.  It is our goal to improve the children’s achievements in school and at home by offering daily activities which include mentoring, tutoring, and activities that focus on teamwork, leadership skills, and physical fitness.

During the school year, the SOS Center’s Day Program provides activities from 3:00 to 6:00 pm for elementary children when they get out of school, while the Night Program provides an assortment of activities from 5:00 to 8:00 pm for middle school and high school youth. In the summer, the program is open to all youth ages 6 to 18 years old from noon to 6:00 pm.

 

By Providing Help, CFS is Creating Hope for these youth and that is good for all of us who live in Amarillo.