Teen Leadership Group has rebranded the teen center, and is seeking sponsors to donate pizza for the group’s monthly activities.

Students at The Base can enjoy activities such as basketball, pool, and video games, in a safe and substance-free environment. Submitted photo

Submitted

Three days a week, anywhere from 30-60 high school students who live in West Hartford drop in to the basement of the Elmwood Community Center to play basketball, pool, or video games, and enjoy a safe and substance-free haven filled with supportive adults and fellow teens.

The space, formerly known as the West Hartford Teen Center, has been rebranded and will now be known as The Base at the West Hartford Teen Center (aka The Base). The Base is operated by the Bridge Family Center and has seen a significant increase in participation over the last few years. It is directed by Jon Merritt, a beloved mentor in the West Hartford Public Schools.

The name change came from meetings held by the Teen Leadership Group, whose members felt The Base would be a nod to their location in the basement, and also reflect the feeling they have that the West Hartford Teen Center is their home base.

They have designed a logo and organized fundraisers for the creation of t-shirts. Now they hope to secure sponsors to help offset the $2,000 annual cost of providing pizza and beverages for their monthly Teen Nights and group activities.

For more information about The Base or to donate pizzas or beverages, contact Jon Merritt at 860.521.8035 ext. 1305 or at [email protected].

The Bridge Family Center is the Youth Service Bureau for the Town of West Hartford, operates The Base at the West Hartford Teen Center, the Family Resource Center, and three counseling centers. It serves as a Tier One Provider of Residential Support for the Department of Children & Families and also offers independent living programs to help launch young adults into the world with support.

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford!