SOUTH BEND, Ind. – South Bend Venues Parks & Arts, in collaboration with local leaders, businesses, and community members, have launched a new monthly program that empowers teens to become positive leaders in their communities.

The program, “Friday Night Life” features breakout sessions led by local leaders on topics like saving money, setting goals, maintaining healthy relationships, and breaking the abuse cycle, in addition to games and activities.

“It’s important for our community’s youth to have a safe space to connect with others in a positive way,” said VPA Director of Community Programming, Cynthia Taylor. “The mentorships created through these types of events can be lifechanging for many.”

The second event in this new program is Friday, Feb. 26 from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center.

The free event is for students in grades 6-8 only but programming for students in grades 9-12 is coming soon.

Friday night’s activities will include an open mic, basketball, martial arts training, canvas painting, and video games.

Students interested in attending must register in advance due to COVID-19 protocols limiting capacity at the event.

To learn more about this program, click here.