The Circle Youth and Young Adult Drop-In Center 16-24

The Circle: Empowering Youth for Independent Living

Not every youth has the support they need. Many youth lack supportive guardians in their home of origin or have aged out of foster care. Recognizing this critical gap, Family Connections Center Inc has established a supportive service network to ensure that at-risk and houseless youth have the resources and opportunities to live independently.

"The Circle," a dedicated 8000 square foot Drop-In Center designed by youth, for youth. Located in Rapid City, this safe and welcoming space serves as a vital support system for young adults aged 16-24 who are facing challenges or experiencing homelessness in our community.

"The Circle" operates year-round, including holidays, with extended hours from 1pm to 8pm. We aim to support at-risk youth or homeless youth in order to help prevent chronic homelessness.  

Shockingly, statistics reveal that 1 in 10 youth aged 18-25 face homelessness each year, while 1 in 30 youth aged 13-17 experience the same plight.

Rapid City Area Schools have identified over 812 at-risk or homeless youth in the 2022-23 school year. This number doesn't include young adults aged 18-24 or those not connected to the school district.

The Circle Drop-In Center offers a wide range of supports tailored to the unique goals and aspirations of youth. We understand that each individual has different needs and dreams, and we are committed to providing the necessary resources to help them achieve their full potential.

Some of the key supports available at "The Circle" include:

• Workforce Development: Equipping youth with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the job market.
• Continued Education: Assisting young individuals in pursuing higher education or vocational training.
• Transitional Housing: Providing safe and stable housing options for those transitioning out of homelessness.
• Runaway and Homeless Emergency Shelter Referral: Connecting youth with emergency shelter services when needed.
• Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Human Trafficking Advocacy, Education, and Case Management: Offering specialized support and resources for survivors.
• Counseling: Providing professional counseling services to address mental health and emotional well-being.
• Medical Education and Referral: Ensuring access to healthcare information and connecting youth with appropriate medical services.
• Food Support: Offering a reliable source of nutritious food to combat hunger and promote overall well-being.
• Facilities: Providing essential facilities and supplies to maintain personal hygiene.
• Career Closet: Supplying professional attire for job interviews and workplace success.
• Personal Attire: Offering clothing and accessories to meet the everyday needs of youth.
• Street Outreach: Engaging with youth in the community to build trust and provide immediate support.
• Computer Lab, Internet, and Technology: Equipping youth with access to technology and the internet for educational and employment purposes.
• Transportation Referral: Assisting youth in accessing transportation options for school, work, and other essential activities.
• Independent Living Skills Workshops: Empowering youth with the necessary skills to live independently, including budgeting, cooking, and household management.
• Social and Emotional Events: Organizing events and activities to foster social connections, build resilience, and promote overall well-being.

"The Circle" is more than just a physical space; it is a lifeline for vulnerable youth in our community. With your support, we can continue to provide these critical resources and empower young individuals to break the cycle of homelessness and achieve their dreams. Together, let's create a brighter future for our youth.