Johnstown Safe Haven Project receives $230,000 for extracurricular activities

CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — The 1889 Foundation announced that a $230,000 grant has been awarded to the Johnstown Safe Haven Project so they can create safe after-school and weekend activities.

It is reported that the Johnstown Safe Haven Project will consist of overlapping, age-focused programs for youth presented by several non-profit organizations in the area as follows:

• 15-18 years old, 18-25 years old: Coaches 4 Kids – Saturday evening activities and learning
• Ages 11-14: Johnstown Community YMCA – Friday Night Activities and Learning
• 11-25: 1st Summit Arena – tickets, programs and events for all age groups, extending existing Friday and Saturday night activities and introducing new ones
• Ages 6-18: Flood City Youth Fitness Academy – tutoring and extracurricular activities

“A wealth of research indicates that investing in young people by providing positive activities during extracurricular times is an effective way to reduce violence and delinquency,” said Johnstown YMCA CEO Shawn Sebring. “Many of these programs are already being implemented by our small-scale organizations – we have a solid foundation to build on. But thanks to 1889, we will be able to reach many more young people.

These programs will be offered through the end of the current school year, according to the 1889 Foundation. Plans are currently being developed to extend them through summer 2022 and into the following school year. .

Through the project, the partners expect to provide positive role models, encourage the development of strong character, present addiction and mental health interventions, as well as provide opportunities for physical activity and quality in-person social interactions.

All volunteers and staff will be trained in abuse prevention and safe practices by the YMCA.