New youth center opening to address crime

The Atlanta Police Foundation and the Atlanta Police Department have partnered with local leaders to address youth crime in Atlanta and reduce the number of young people who negatively experience the criminal justice system. They will come together for a double ribbon cutting to commemorate the grand opening of the At-Promise Youth Center and newly installed Atlanta Hawks Foundation basketball court 4 to 5 p.m. Aug. 1 at At-Promise Center, 740 Cameron Madison Alexander Blvd. in Atlanta.

Located in historic English Avenue, the At-Promise Center is an opportunity to participate in the revitalization efforts of the community. This center brings together youth providers who by mission may have similar service areas. However, in the center, each provider will lead one of five key specialty areas: education, recreation, social/emotional learning, mental health or workforce development. In its first year, this facility is expected serve up to 150 youth and young adults ages 12 to 24 who reside on Atlanta’s Westside.

As the concern of juvenile crime increases, the need for this center is vital, say city officials. By believing youth are At-Promise and not at-risk, Atlanta is changing the way communities proactively approach crime reduction by changing the future of young people and their families.