Safe educational space for teenagers
THIS year, the Crossroads Teen Centre situated in Turnbull Street, Empangeni celebrates its 13th year of helping equip local youth for their future.
For high school learners with few resources at home, or an empty house until working parents get back in the evening, the centre provides a safe and fun venue for teens to hang out during the afternoons.
The facility is a registered NPO with a Christian-based youth development focus, and is open from 11am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Crossroads Teen Centre provides youth with various programmes and services such as study facilities, a computer lab, music room, tutoring assistance, counselling, plus a range of fun social activities.
The impact of the centre has been felt by many teens over the past decade.
“Last term, I was going through so much academically and at home, but I am so grateful to Crossroads, which helped me with tutoring sessions and also called in a counsellor to assist me,” said one pupil.
“Crossroads has always been that place where I'd forget about everything that's negative and become a more positive teen.
“The tutoring lessons helped me get better results, and having access to data and computers for research has really assisted me.
"Joining Crossroads was one of the best decisions I ever made," said Grade 12 pupil Zonqoba Ngwenya.
Access and activities are carefully controlled, with pupils having to register as members and sign in on each visit to the centre.
Crossroads' record attendance on a single afternoon was 84 learners, with approximately 316 members registered that year.
Numbers are low following the Covid pandemic restrictions, but are once again starting to rise as the centre’s acting manager, Hope Mtshali begins to rebuild the partnership with local schools, businesses and volunteers.
Anyone seeking opportunities to positively contribute in some way to the future success of local youth is welcome to contact Hope on 068 2615625 or email hope@crossroadsteencentre.co.za