By: centraljersey.com
HILLSBOROUGH – Hillsborough teens will soon have a new destination Saturday nights this fall. Teen Zone, a new program at the Hillsborough Family YMCA is set to begin Saturday and run through May 7, 2011.
This new program, for teens in the seventh through 10th grades, was made possible through a grant by the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders and co-sponsored by the Hillsborough Youth Commission and the Hillsborough Family YMCA.
The goal of the Hillsborough Youth Commission and Hillsborough Family YMCA is to increase teen’s positive self-image by providing opportunities for health and wellness programs that will aid in fighting childhood obesity. The health and wellness opportunities would include zumba and spinning classes, organized games, as well as volleyball, swimming and basketball.
While at the Teen Zone, participating youth will have clear standards and rules for acceptable behavior and will benefit from the mentoring of caring, supportive adults. It is the hope of everyone involved that teens will benefit from increased social and decision making skills, ultimately leading to an increase in self esteem.
"This has been a goal of the Hillsborough Youth Commission for a long time" Sally Treonze, Hillsborough Youth Commission chairwoman, said. "The Hillsborough Youth Commission is very happy to provide the teens of Hillsborough with a safe and fun place to go on Saturday nights during the school year."
"At the Y, we provide guidance and encouragement to help youth and teens develop and realize their potential" the Y’s Executive Director, Valerie Giacopelli, said. "We’re very happy to be partnering with the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders and Hillsborough Youth Commission to bring this wonderful new program to teens in our community."
Teen Zone will be open to everyone during the school year from 7 – 10 p.m. The fee will be $3 per person, per visit.
To find our more about the Hillsborough Family YMCA, visit www.ymcasomersetvalley.org.
