Teen Center elevates opportunities for area youth

MANCHESTER, NH —  On April 23, the YMCA of Downtown Manchester welcomed an audience of over 60 PROCON business leaders, local organizations and students to a special open house for the Center for Youth and Teen Leadership. This was a special tribute for the Stebbins family and the staff of PROCON in recognition of their generous funding and partnership to help make the Center for Youth and Teen Leadership a reality.

The Center, which has its own entrance off Stark Street, currently serves approximately 90-100 youth and teens between the ages of 11 and 17 each day. Program opportunities include after school open teen center hours, monthly themed teen nights, teen mentoring, homework help, health education, life-skills training, college and career preparation, and a variety of educational and enrichment programs.

“Not all teens in Manchester have access or opportunities to experience the programs offered in our community. Thank you to PROCON for elevating the opportunities of others for a greater impact for all through the Y, Manchester School District, Boys and Girls Club, United Way, and City of Manchester—we all make a difference every day,” commented Michele Sheppard, Chief Operating Officer of The Granite YMCA.

It is because of PROCON’s generous Capital Campaign gift, that more students have access to a safe place during after school hours. In addition, over the last six years the PROCON team has adopted 80 Y-START and Y-STAY students during the holiday season by providing Christmas presents for the students.

“The YMCA is a safe haven where these kids can go on to live the American dream,” commented Mark Stebbins, Owner of PROCON. “When I see organizations like The Granite YMCA and the Boys and Girls Club providing our Manchester youth with a safe place to do their homework, hangout with friends, and simply be off the streets; I see them providing youth and families with access to the American dream.”

Community giving is a central focus of PROCON’s culture. They believe in sharing their commitment to the community by sharing their time and talents through compassionate giving to organizations in their own backyard. Through the generosity of PROCON and other community donors, the YMCA of Downtown Manchester officially opened the 5,000 square foot Center for Youth and Teen Leadership in September. Over the last eight months, this space has benefitted thousands of youth, teens, families, and seniors, and it will continue to be a safe space where all are welcome for years to come.

About PROCON
PROCON’s is a single-source, architecture, engineering and construction management firm serving commercial developers throughout the Northeast. For over 80 years, the 4th generation Company has been built on integrity, lasting partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to client success. The Company’s one-stop-shopping approach to design, engineering and construction services means that at PROCON, every solution is just down the hall.

About The Granite YMCA
As one of the state’s longest standing and most enduring non-profits, The Granite YMCA focuses on youth development, healthy living, social responsibility, and family strengthening. Across the state, its six branches engage 30,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to improve their health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. In 2018, The Granite YMCA provided financial assistance and free services valued at over $1.77 million to 22,890 individuals. To learn more, please visit www.graniteymca.org.