San Antonio Youth Centers

In 1984, Brother Danna Gauthreaux, OMI, was concerned about the high number of young people congregating on the downtown streets with “nothing to do.” After speaking with a group of concerned citizens and his own church, he opened the Children’s Crisis and Rescue Center, renamed a month later to the St. Mary’s Youth Drop-In Center. The Center became a refuge for night youth, a safe haven, a source of counseling and support, and a place to eat. Within two years, United Way began funding the Center, and it rapidly became known as “The Dungeon.” In 1989, Brother Danna moved the center to West Commerce Street in a larger facility, the old Toudouze Market Building, and became the “Downtown Youth Drop-In Center.” For years the Center operated on a shoe-string budget and with a “short-term” lease. In 1995, the Center faced a permanent closure because of lack of funding and lack of space. However, a dedicated board, staff and community transformed the struggling agency, calling for support from city leaders, funders and individuals. Not only was the center able to keep its doors open, but it was able to move into a much larger, nicer facility on Poplar Street, later renamed the Dan Cook Youth Center. From there, the Center continued to grow and by 1999, became the San Antonio Youth Centers. Today, San Antonio Youth Centers (SAYC) operates several community learning centers for school-age youth and one alternative campus in collaboration with SAISD for high-school drop-outs. SAYC’s mission is to develop the character, strength, talents, and skills of San Antonio’s high-risk urban youth through fun, safe experiences, positive learning environments, and holistic programs that inspire each individual to fulfill their potential personally and in the community. Source: http://sanantonioyouth.org/