January 15, 2008
There’s a word absent from the teenage lexicon that is all too often used to describe the very group that neglects it.
No, it's not "trendy" or "hip." The word I speak of is, of course, "teen."
Teen – doesn’t that sound just a little outdated, a little past the mark, trying a bit too hard to come off as vogue and with it?
A few of those same concerns have been applied to the Central Bucks YMCA facility that borrows the very word for its Teen Center.
Despite initial backlash from the tax-paying public and an unfortunate lack of interest from the youth community, however, the investments seem to have paid off.
Although it at first was ineffective, the center has proven to be "a lot more popular in the last couple of years" representatives from the Y said.
And how could it not?
Situated on the main grounds of the YMCA in Doylestown, the center is able to offer a plethora of programs and features that include but certainly are not limited to dance lessons/events, band jams, babysitting classes, CPR training, sports clubs and a lounge area that offers a pool table, arcade games, Internet access, boasts two televisions (one wide-screen) and an Xbox 360 with "Guitar Hero" for all of those who wish to release their inner rock star.
The Y, in keeping with its commitment to offer the very best to the community, promises to keep the center up to date and plans to continue to add new amenities even as it enters a major reconstruction of its main structure
That project includes renovation and the addition the Inez Lenfest Aquatic Center. The Y will expand locker rooms, the wellness center, babysitting facilities and parking. It will also add space for classes and a lounge area with a cafe.
With these programs, representatives from the Y said they hope to "find new ways to bring in teens."
It seems to be working.
Teens' initially chilly response has thawed substantially as the center continues to grow – most especially after the fee for use was dropped in favor of a policy that provides even those without Y membership complete access.
As one Central Bucks East student (who preferred to remain unnamed) summed it up: "It's just a cool place to hang out, now."
Couldn’t have said it better myself.
