Since 2011, the Stuart Freedom For Youth Center has offered after-school programs for elementary students in the West Central Valley School District. However, the Center is hoping to soon expand in age groups.

The Center currently conducts weekly programs for students in Kindergarten-5th grades every Tuesday and Thursday. The programs run from 4-6 pm and include snacks, homework help, and group activities. While Freedom For Youth is a Christian based ministry, non-Christians are welcome to attend.

Center Director Chad Eastridge has been at the Stuart location for almost a year. He was set to work at a bank before he came to the Center, but decided to focus his life on ministry efforts. Eastridge has seen the Center expand from about 20 kids at the end of last spring, to around 30 kids this fall. Eastridge shared his reaction to the increase. “We had no idea God was going to bring in so many kids on the first day. I think what’s crazy is just watching God grow the program and bring those kids to the Youth Center.”

Eastridge hopes to see a consistent weekly middle/high school program. The Center is always looking for more volunteers 16 and older to help mentor the kids and facilitate the programs.

Contact: Chad- ceastridge@freedomforyouth.org