PROGRAMMING AT A GLANCE
Social-Emotional Collaborative Learning
Programming is structured to benefit all the teenagers that walk through our doors. Brookline Teen Outreach offers enrichment activities in areas that reflect the interests of our group. This includes life skill building, health initiatives, writing programs, guest speakers from a wide range of disciplines, movie nights, youth-produced activities, and much more.
In addition, we give teens the chance to access the best educational and job training resources that our city has to offer, provide customized advice on college admissions and grant opportunities, as well as, providing information sessions on applying for loans and budgeting from specialists in the field.
Our team of experienced program coordinators work diligently to create new, and exciting programming that reflects what is important to teens. Moreover, we offer them a safe, free space to socialize and explore their interests.
Socialization is one of the most important services we can provide to young people. By providing a safe space with numerous opportunities for growth as well as fun, we are giving teens a way to stay away from negative influences in the community and give parents assurance of their children’s security.
Dynamic Programming is crucial to student engagement and development. Our goal is to provide programming that reflects student interests and is ever-evolving. Programming at Brookline Teen Outreach Center is provided by staff, as well as, outside contributors that are skilled in their field of expertise.
Life Skills are necessary for young people to succeed. Life skills lessons are provided by staff, volunteers, and contracted individuals.
Examples of life skills sessions include:
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Building a budget
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Applying for student loans
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Accessing grant money
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College application preparation
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Cooking skills
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Sewing
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Car mechanic basics
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Setting up a bank account
OUR PROGRAMS
Collaborative & Innovative
ART PROGRAMMING
Every day Educational Art includes:
Interactive gallery walls
Jewelry Making
Sewing
Crafting
Painting
Pottery
& Long-term projects
COMMUNITY SERVICE
By partnering with Boyscouts, Eagle Scouts, Girl scouts, partner non-profits we have been able to further our mission statement, while helping them attain their own personal goals.
STEM PROGRAMMING
STEM programming ranging from Birdbrain Technology robotic boxes, Carnegie Science Center Events, germination, hydroponics, camping, light engineering projects, extensive garden program and much more.
AFTER-SCHOOL SNACK & NIGHTLY DINNER
Nightly meals and snacks are prepared for the kids and are free of charge. On Fridays, the kids get to join our Head Chef in the kitchen and even cook with some of the fresh vegetables they grew through STEM Programming!
SOCIAL EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT & SOCIALIZATION
Socialization of peers in a controlled positive safe environment. Afterschool socializing while being monitored by licensed counselors, young aspiring interns, and health/youth experienced volunteers. Surrounded by positive adult role models. Video games, pool, board games, air hockey, and field trip exposing and encouraging the teens to engage with peers.
GARDENING PROGRAM
From seed to stomach. The students start off by germinating seeds during the winter time at the center. Once ready, they are planted and nurtured through the spring into the summer. When mature, the vegetables and herbs are harvested and brought back to Brookline Teen Outreach's kitchen. The Weekly Cooking Class utilizes these vegetables, and make dinner for the whole group that evening. If there is a surplus, the kids donate the excess in a donation based Farmer-Style-Market, teaching them philanthropic values.
TUTORING
Our Master's program interns, staff, and volunteers offer tutoring during 1:1 sessions.
COOKING CLASSES
Every Friday, cooking class led by a local chef. Teaching kids valuable life skills on how to cook simple and basic meals for themself.
GIRL'S GROUP
Every Thursday girls have a safe space to talk about what is going on in their lives and healthy ways to approach decision making.
ADVENTURE BASED PROGRAMMING
Youth ages 10-18 join us for outdoor adventures where we get into nature, learn survival skills, and have lots of fun! This group is led by an Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania leader at various sites located in the greater Pittsburgh area. Hikers meet at BTO at 9AM and return at 2PM. Lunch is provided. Boot and Rain Gear Lending Program is available free of charge.
LGBTQIA+ GROUP
14 and older. Group meets weekly on Wednesdays to discuss LGBTQIA+ topics. Led by a counselor and centered around discussing anything and everything concerning teens and their adolescent growth.
IN-HOUSE COUNSELING
Compassionate Counseling is an in-house private practice therapy provider offering group and family counseling, 1-1 session, distance counseling, mobile therapy, and video based sessions for ALL ages. Compassionate Counseling licensed and accredited therapists take all major insurances, offers sliding scale payments and free services.
PIZZA WITH POLICE
Pizza with Police is a monthly visit from our local Zone 6 City of Pittsburgh Police! 🍕
It’s a great time for the kids to engage with positive role models, plus... free pizza!
CIVIC OUTREACH
Through partnering with local city and county councilmen, State Senators and Representatives & countless other community service professionals the students' learn the importance of being involved with their neighborhood.
