July 12, 2022 3:40 a.m.

This summer, the Douglas Education Service District’s Youth Development program is partnering with the YMCA of Douglas County on Youth Space.

A release said it’s a place for local youth ages 14-18 to spend time during summer. With the support of the Oregon Community Summer Grant Program, Youth Space opened on Monday and is operating weekdays from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. through September 2nd.

Led by Douglas ESD’s Youth Mentors, the youth-centered program is providing programming that takes full advantage of the YMCA’s facilities. In addition, the nearby Umpqua Valley Arts Association has joined the partnership to offer a graphic arts artist -in-residency to teach youth about graphic design and guide youth in creating a public art project in Roseburg. Other Youth Space activities include games, art-making, and supports for both academics and employment skill-building.

The release said the local Youth Development Program provides meaningful relationships in the form of its Youth Mentors, enabling youth to connect with their passions and engage in deeper learning opportunities while simultaneously developing actionable plans for their futures.

Contact Douglas ESD for more information about the program.