CLEARLAKE ? Lake Center for Support (LCS) drop-in center enjoyed so much success in its first year that it outgrew its facility and has moved to a new location. The organization now operates out of the “Old Firehouse” building at 14130 Lakeshore Drive.
“The community has really rallied around LCS and what we are trying to accomplish. 2008 was a great year,” Shanti Gallon, LCS program coordinator said.
“We opened our doors in February to a few members of the professional community and some youth who were looking for ways to better their situations,” she said, “By November, we are proud to say we had outgrown our small house and had to relocate to a much bigger site that will allow us to meet the needs of dozens of youth, parents and professionals who have come forward asking for services.”
LCS, a division of Children”s Therapeutic Services, Redwood Children”s Services, offers a variety of programs that assist with the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Services are offered to youth and young adults age 16 to 24, free of charge. LCS programs provide assistance to clients in a variety of areas.
Classes are offered that help clients sharpen communication skills, reduce stress, learn how to bank, learn about the voting process and more. LCS also offers onsite peer counseling, a clothing closet and an onsite bathing facility. The center is equipped with a big high chair and play pen so young parents have the option of bringing their infants with them when visiting the center.
Gallon said that LCS is looking toward the New Year with much enthusiasm. “2009 looks brighter than ever for LCS,” she said. “Our sophomore year promises to offer a variety of groups, classes and activities as well as a wider partnership with other people and agencies also dedicated to supporting the youth in this community. Together, we can make a difference, even if it is measured in small successes.”
LCS youth not only engage themselves in activities that better themselves, they also engage in projects that better the community as well. Youth volunteers contributed considerably to the inaugural AIDSWalk Lake County in September and last week LCS youth teamed with Little Daisies pack No. 10505 for Christmas caroling at Meadowood Nursing Center in Clearlake.
LCS is open Wednesday through Sunday. For an activity schedule or more information regarding available services, visit the drop-in center or call 994-5486.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or contact her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11.
