The Worcester Youth Center is the only free drop-in program in the city for youth ages 14 to 24.

In addition, the Youth Center has a long list of activities that young people can get involved with. These activities are grouped into four different program types which are:

Violence Is Not Normal

Gun violence is an urgent public health issue. In Massachusetts, guns are responsible for three out of four youth homicides. Violence-free communities are healthy communities. That’s why we want to help Worcester youth avoid violent conflict. There’s a role for everyone in this campaign. Learn More.

Creative Expression / Leadership

Youth leadership and community service learning programs are combined in order to develop leadership, communication, planning and writing skills that youth put into practice to identify and solve community problems. Learn More.

Health / Wellness

Youth gain access to physical and mental health services through our community partners. Recreational activities serve as the primary introduction to the Center where youth and staff begin to build relationships. Activities include the recreation room, dancing, martial arts and recording studio. Learn More.

Career and Education

The Youth Center Career Support program follows a transitional youth employment model. These activities are prototypical of best practices that assist youth to acquire skills to enter the workforce or post-secondary education (including technical training). The program is experienced in 5 levels, although a client may not participate in all levels. Participants are first assessed for need and ability. Learn More.