In Bealeton, Virginia, many students say there are limited options for entertainment outside of school. As a result, some teenagers spend their free time at local gas stations or fast food restaurants.
To address this, students have come up with the idea of a community center, a space where children, teenagers, and adults can participate in activities and connect with others.
Junior, Layla Patterson said a community center “would be beneficial because it will keep a lot of teenagers out of trouble.”
Many students believe they need a community center that includes; two gyms, one a basketball court and another gym with equipment, a food court, an arcade, a study area, a pool, and a gift shop. For the outside, students have mentioned a field to play and practice outside sports on, a playground for younger kids to enjoy, a tennis court, an outside basketball court, and an outside pool for the summer. This will get teenagers and children out of the house and give them something fun to enjoy outside of school, something that isn’t just fast food restaurants. Students said fun events that will be held at the community center will give them encouragement to get involved within the community. Many things that students want to get involved in is; Paint ball, Open mic nights, open gyms, etc. Many people have said they can only go to a friend’s house and they want the ability to get more out there.
“Having a community center will keep many teenagers off their phones and communicate in person, making social interactions,” junior, Harley Schnieder.
Many hold the concerns about the safety of the children, students don’t have much to do so they resort to things like drugs, and trouble making activities. Having a community center will create less problematic situations for both parents and teenagers, and more fun and encouraging environments all around. Some students believe a community center could reduce negative behaviors by giving teens a safe place to go.There will always be problems that teenagers will likely get involved in, the feeling of rebelling is a compelling emotion for many adolescents. Though having this community center will provide a space where we can get a hold of those rebellious behaviors, and focus on a more fun environment. “Community centers could help students with community service and volunteering, it will help them get involved with the things around in their community,” says freshman, Ashlynn Wedge.
A community center would give children, teenagers, and adults a place to participate in activities close to home. Students say it could encourage creativity and provide more opportunities for face-to-face social interaction, rather than time spent on phones. Many also believe it would offer a welcoming space to spend time with friends and family. Overall, a community center could create a safe and inclusive environment where people of all ages can gather and enjoy a variety of activities.
