The Bijou Teen Center, a workforce development teen center owned and operated by Grow Arizona, held its grand opening last Friday, with attendees from throughout the state.
The concept of a teen center came about two years ago when Holbrook High School student Bobbi Seaton and Joseph City High School student Tyra Dixon, took part in an internship through Grow Arizona and funded by United Way of Northern Arizona to research the needs of teens in the region. Their efforts led to the knowledge that teens in the area needed a space to call their own; a space to explore creativity, develop skills, receive mentorship and plan for their future.
The building for the center was donated by Brian and Jane Gardner of Joseph City and features a makerspace for creating and exploring ideas, a sound studio for podcasting and music lessons, a café with a commercial kitchen that will feature the Bijou Bowls, an acai bowl and smoothie shop, and a space for relaxing. Separate from the teen center is a retail space that is being designed for teens to sell their creations and for all creators in the community to sell their arts, as well as other goods. Both retail spaces will include paid internships for students.
The remodel of the center was funded by Wellpoint, a national health insurance provider. Adjacent to the center is the APS Opportunity Studio, a space, funded by Arizona Public Service, that will allow teens to explore skills in the trades. It was noted that this is the only teen center in Navajo County.
“The outpouring of support for the Bijou Teen Center has been incredible. To see nonprofits, business leaders, educators and community members come together with such enthusiasm reminds us of what is possible when we believe in our youth. I’m especially grateful for the youth already jumping in with ideas and energy. This space is theirs; a place to be motivated, to experiment, to build, to dream, and to grow their confidence through hands-on learning and creativity. I look forward to watching the incredible things they will do here,” stated Grow Arizona CEO Kathleen Smith.
“This marks a milestone for Holbrook and the surrounding communities,” stated Grow Arizona CEO Linda Kor. “This center isn’t just a building, it’s a promise to our youth that their dreams matter, their skills will be nurtured and their futures are ours to build together. Those of us at Grow Arizona are very excited to move forward with programming thanks to the support of all those who believe in what these kids can accomplish,” she added.
The center will be open for teens ages 13 to 18 (until graduation) from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., Monday thru Thursday, allowing students who attend Holbrook High School but do not live locally to attend and then take the late bus home in the evening. To participate at the center, teens need to have written parent or guardian permission and abide by the rules at the center. Information for enrollment can be found at the Grow Arizona Centers located at Holbrook and Joseph City high schools or at The Bijou Teen Center during operating hours.
For individuals interested in donating supplies, funds or time, reach out to center manager Lyndzi Brawley at lindzi@growarizona.org.
