Douglas County Youth Innovation Center

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Our mission at the Youth Innovation Center is to provide a safe, holistic approach to the development and success of youth on their journey to a healthy, productive lifestyle.

Our holistic, and effective approach to impacting youth incorporates a culture of compassion, assertiveness, mindfulness, inclusiveness and play. Implementation of our programs are led by a passionate, experienced staff of professionals who are invested in the overall well-being of every youth.

We believe that a collaboration of resources, therapeutic methods modern and traditional are the best ways to reach these goals. Next Up integrates relational and behavioral therapies, along with holistic interventions to help clients reach their behavioral and emotional health while promoting well-being.

Services We Offer

Often youth participants present with emotional, behavioral, social, and mental health challenges that require special care, treatment and worker sensitivity. It is essential that the One Community Health Solution workforce be trauma-informed to address the multiple challenges serving youth participant and families who have been exposed to trauma. The One community Health Solution and its partners must identify trauma exposure and make every effort to prevent re-traumatization by promoting healing relationships and environments through embracing the “key” trauma-informed principles of respect, safety, trust, collaboration, choice and empowerment. In addition, we should use evidence-based trauma-specific services and treatments for recovery pathways.

In partnership with Compudopt, the YIC will offer programming that will focus on youth using technology to solve problems, become familiar with coding, computer hardware and software.

From leadership to goal setting, we will focus on critical skills that will equip youth throughout life, such as decision making, communication, self-management, self-care, and personal responsibility.

In partnership with Never Alone Clubhouse, staff will reinforce positive behaviors and address challenges that youth deal with in a group as well as one-on-one setting.

Students will learn how to search for job/career opportunities based on skills, interests, education and demands. Students will learn resume writing, soft skills, interviewing and critical thinking.

Youth will learn valuable skills that will equip them to handle life’s adversity. From behavior health to mental and cognitive skills development, we will equip youth for a future of success.

Directed by Claire C.

Be A Community Member, Be a Friend

Directed by Claire C.

Community Cares…Teens Care

Directed by Claire C.

Suicide Prevention

What activities do the Youth participate in?

At the Douglas County Youth Innovation Center, we empower teens through S.T.E.A.M. workshops, career prep, life skills training, and resiliency programs. Outings like visits to the Tellus Science Museum and the local animal shelter provide hands-on learning and foster creativity and compassion. Partnering with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, we offer mentorship and build positive relationships. Every activity and connection helps equip teens with skills, confidence, and inspiration to become tomorrow’s leaders.