When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center
Why Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Volunteers of America, Utah's Youth Resource Center (YRC) serves as a vital refuge and support system for youth aged 15 to 22 who are imminently at-risk of or experiencing homelessness. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the center offers a warm, welcoming environment where young people can access essential resources that address their immediate needs and long-term stability. By providing three hot meals daily, pantry food, showers, laundry, and a supportive shelter environment with 50 emergency beds each night, the YRC creates a safe space for youth to find care and support. Beyond these basic services, the center emphasizes holistic well-being by offering life-skills groups — including activities such as crafts, music, cooking, and therapeutic sessions — which empower youth to build confidence and resilience. Specialized housing and employment case management helps young people navigate pathways to independence, while on-site assistance with dental, medical, and mental health care ensures comprehensive support. The Youth Resource Center also fosters community involvement and engagement led by youth advocates, promoting peer connection and leadership. Overall, Volunteers of America Utah's Youth Resource Center stands out as a dedicated place where at-risk youth can find safety, nourishment, and the services necessary to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Here's what people think of Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center
As of recent, Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center holds a 4-star rating based on 134 reviews.
Reviews highlight Volunteers of America, Utah's Youth Resource Center as a critical resource and a caring environment for vulnerable youth. Many users appreciate the dedicated staff who provide respectful, nonjudgmental support, and the center's ability to offer immediate help like shelter, meals, and access to health services. Positive reviews often mention the warmth of the community programs and the opportunity for youth to engage in life-skills groups and advocacy, which contribute to personal growth and empowerment. Users have also praised the availability of comprehensive case management services that address both housing and employment needs, enabling transition out of homelessness. On the other hand, negative reviews have focused on challenges such as occasional overcrowding, waiting times during peak demand, and sometimes limited privacy due to the shelter's high capacity. Some users have noted that resources can be strained, indicated by delays in certain services or limited availability of certain programs, reflecting the high volume of youth served. However, the majority of critiques acknowledge these difficulties as systemic issues rather than the fault of staff or the center's efforts. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong endorsement of the Youth Resource Center's mission and its positive impact on at-risk youth, underscoring its importance as a supportive, life-changing institution within the Utah community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Scott Schwab
Serving the youth was special! I will definitely be back again. These kids have bright futures, they just need love!
Cody JR
I went here looking for help. They were good in the start. But don't get to comfortable with the staff or their program it's all not wha they say it is. Racist staff as well. There mission is to stop homelessness but exiting people for metal/disability and putting them back on the street is against their rule book and against state law. Do not recommend this place for people trying to work on themselves. Place don't care about you. They just want a check and recognition for the "nice place their running" also have a video of the director lying to me 2 times on camera. The director is Louise. And he hates when you got sum that he don't agree with . Waste of my 6 months there. I am now out of there and have a place and a job. Says sum about how it's being run!!!
Rachel Green
When Google prompted me to leave a review for the VOA Homeless Youth Resource Center, I had to obey. There are few organizations in the world that are showing compassion and helping those in need in the same way that the VOA is. If you are at all intrested in getting involved in helping those experiencing homelessness, addiction, or mental illness I cannot recommend the VOA more! These photos are of our volunteer group, Love Lake City, serving lunch last month.
Tru Neilson
Disappointed that every time I go to donate they have parked their company branded cars illegal blocking/filling the handicap stalls. Seems like a place of compassion should be more aware of those who already have a tougher life.
Dan Benshoff
I gather a crew together to prepare and serve and a monthly breakfast for the VOA. We typically bring all of our own ingredients for the meal but the pantry there is packed with an array of things to serve. If you are feeling adventurous (like Chopped) show up and make a meal with what they have. Otherwise bring your own menu and prepare it there. The kitchen facilities are amazing and the VOA group is pretty meticulous when it comes to Covid precautions. It’s a very easy way to provide much needed help for homeless youth in our community. Serving here will more often than not bring a tear to your eye. It is heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. The signup process on Signupgeenie is super easy. Just google VOA utah youth resource shelter.
How to reach Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center
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Why Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup at Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center (YRC) offers more than just a social outing—it’s a powerful opportunity to unite around a cause that deeply impacts the community. This center stands as a beacon of hope and support for youth aged 15-22 who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Rallying here creates a meaningful, fulfilling experience where your group can witness firsthand the positive effects of compassion and community service. It’s a place that inspires connection not only between friends but also between your group and the vulnerable youths the center serves. The environment fosters empathy, education, and empowerment by allowing you and your friends to engage in volunteer activities or simply learn about the vital support systems the YRC provides 24/7 year-round. This engagement cultivates a sense of purpose and solidarity that goes beyond typical social meetups, making your gathering both memorable and impactful.
Additionally, the Youth Resource Center is ideal for groups seeking to balance social interaction with community contribution. The setting is welcoming and inclusive, offering a safe space that encourages dialogue on youth homelessness, mental health, and other pressing social issues. Your group can support vital programs while strengthening friendships through shared experiences devoted to service and awareness. Overall, rallying at this place transforms a simple meetup into a collective effort to uplift youth, making your time together not only enjoyable but also profoundly meaningful.
What activities can you do at the Youth Resource Center?
The Youth Resource Center offers a variety of activities that make it an excellent venue for group meetups oriented around community support and learning. One of the central activities your group can engage in is volunteering. Volunteers can assist with preparing or serving three hot meals a day to youth experiencing homelessness, helping operate the food pantry, or supporting life skills groups designed to empower the center’s clients. Volunteering here often includes hands-on tasks like assisting in laundry and shower facilities, facilitating workshops, or aiding employment and housing case management programs. These activities allow your group to work together toward a shared goal, fostering teamwork and a sense of accomplishment.
Besides volunteering, groups can participate in educational sessions about trauma and cultural awareness, which the center regularly provides to deepen understanding of the challenges faced by homeless youth. These sessions offer insightful discussions that promote empathy and help volunteers approach their support roles more sensitively and effectively. The Youth Resource Center also offers access to on-site medical, dental, and mental health services, which volunteers can help promote and support by helping youth navigate these resources.
For groups interested in hosting a gathering focused on social issues, the YRC provides a setting to hold discussions or workshops related to youth homelessness, mental health, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and vocational training. These group activities give friends the chance to connect intellectually and emotionally while contributing positively to the community. Overall, the Center's diverse offerings cater to groups eager to combine meaningful experiences with social outreach.
Why is the Youth Resource Center perfect for hosting group meetups?
The Youth Resource Center is uniquely suited for group meetups because of its versatile space, welcoming atmosphere, and impactful mission that inspires collaboration. Unlike typical venues, it provides a setting where social gatherings can be enriched with purpose, allowing friends and family to bond over meaningful service. The Center's 24/7 accessibility and consistent programs enable groups to plan visits that fit diverse schedules, making it convenient for various types of gatherings. Furthermore, the staff's dedication to inclusivity and support ensures that every group member feels valued and comfortable, promoting positive interactions and team spirit.
The facility's design supports community activities—from sharing meals to participating in educational programs—making it easy for groups to engage in multiple ways during one visit. The ability to contribute tangibly through volunteer efforts, such as meal service or case management support, integrates socializing with active engagement for a fulfilling experience. This setup means your meetup isn’t just recreational; it leaves a lasting imprint on both your group and the youths served, enhancing the emotional rewards of your time together.
Moreover, the Center's reputation for compassionate services and its role in the local community make it a focal point for social responsibility and awareness. This encourages groups to deepen their impact beyond the meetup itself, perhaps inspiring ongoing involvement or advocacy efforts. In sum, the Youth Resource Center provides the ideal environment for meetups that combine friendship with community uplift, knowledge sharing, and heartfelt connection.
What support services are available at Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center?
Volunteers of America, Utah - Youth Resource Center is a comprehensive support hub designed to meet the diverse needs of youth facing homelessness or at-risk situations. The center operates as a drop-in resource during the day and transforms into a 50-bed emergency shelter overnight, ensuring round-the-clock care. Youth can access three hot meals daily, along with pantry food, so basic nutrition needs are consistently met. Facilities for showers and laundry services help maintain personal hygiene—an essential component of dignity and health.
Beyond immediate physical needs, the Center offers robust mental health services and crisis case management to address psychological and emotional challenges faced by youth. On-site access to dental and medical care ensures that many healthcare needs can be addressed promptly and conveniently. Additionally, case managers work directly with clients to provide life-skills courses and employment assistance—two critical factors in helping youth gain independence and stability. Housing assistance services further support the transition from homelessness to permanent living arrangements.
Vocational rehabilitation and victim services also form part of the Center’s holistic approach, ensuring that no need goes unmet. The variety and scope of these services make the Youth Resource Center a vital community asset for youth and a meaningful place for groups to engage in direct aid activities.
How can your group get involved with the Youth Resource Center?
Your group can get involved with the Youth Resource Center in several meaningful ways, centered primarily on volunteering and advocacy. First, potential volunteers need to register for a Get Connected account through the Volunteers of America Utah platform to participate formally. Once registered, groups can arrange volunteer sessions that range from meal preparation and service to assisting with daily operations like managing pantry supplies or supporting youth participation in skill-building workshops.
Groups can also organize awareness campaigns or host educational events that partner with the Center to spread knowledge about youth homelessness and related social issues. Participating in or hosting fundraising activities on behalf of the Youth Resource Center is another impactful way to contribute—funds directly support the diverse programs and emergency shelter operations.
Finally, groups can engage in mentoring or friendship programs where members develop personal connections with youth clients, providing emotional support and motivation. This kind of involvement enriches community ties and helps build a positive environment for vulnerable young people.
In sum, the opportunities for group involvement at the Youth Resource Center are varied and accommodate different interests and availability, making it easy to find ways to contribute that resonate with your group’s passions and strengths. This not only benefits the Center and its clients but also strengthens your group’s bonds through shared, purposeful action.