CROSSROADS Teen Centre in Empangeni has been the driving force for many teens in the community to strive towards reaching their full potential.
Offering Christian-based recreational, social and educational programmes in a safe and stable environment, the non-profit and public benefit organisation equips teens to better meet their challenges, maximise their potential and confidently lead the way for their peers.
Its inception in 2009 followed a study conducted by the Empangeni Methodist Church and Christian Social Services in an attempt to address the concerns of teenagers in the area.
This research involving about 4 000 high school pupils, identified the social, emotional, spiritual and physical concerns of teenagers.
The centre’s premises consists of a hall that can accommodate approximately 70 people, as well as 14 rooms, ablution and kitchen facilities.
Available to the teens on a daily basis are quiet rooms for studying, a chill room with a tuck-shop where the teens can socialise, a music room for music practice and a computer room for projects research.
‘Crossroads Teen Centre has created a wonderful family environment to many teenagers in Zululand, helping them physically, spiritually and emotionally,’ said Centre Programme Manager Bennie Mthembu.
Operational Manager Desire Laatz said there is nothing better than seeing the lives of teenagers less fortunate being impacted by the work done at the centre.
‘Working at the centre is a passion for me. It’s so amazing when the teens share their experiences such as being taught how to do a CV, apply to universities or apply for bursaries and how to build leadership skills and much more.’
For more information, contact the centre on 035 7725823 or email desire@crossroadsteencentre.co.za or visit the website www.crossroadsteencentre.co.za.
