We provide job training, housing, meal assistance, transportation, mental health services, and more to youth between the ages of 14 and 25! We are a unique non-profit that operates several for-profit ventures that offer employment and training you youth age 16-24, with preference given to homeless youth, and the goal of offering financial support back to the organization to support operating costs and services. Youth coming for services are expected to work toward goals and make progress, accept help to remove barriers, and identify challenges personally that keep them from being successful. Our Gathering Grounds Café is open to the public from 6am-4pm, and trains baristas as well as bakers and sous chefs. The Café also offers a supper program for homeless youth from 3-4pm, hosted by community members who enjoy a meal with the youth. We use local and Alaskan made products whenever possible: Havemeister Dairy milk, Alaska Chip Company potato chips, Alaska Roastery coffee products, Summit Spice and Tea company tea, and a local supplier for Coke products. Behind the Café is a drop in center for homeless youth, with food, clothing, showers and laundry opportunities. Employment services are available on site through Nine Star, a partner provider who also helps with high school completion and GED programs. Another partner business offers car detailing, and employs additional youth. In summer months we also operate a Garden business, selling hanging flower baskets, potted flowers and vegetables to the public. Coming soon is a Steampunk themed thrift store specializing in teen clothing and employing and training more youth. Our case management services include a large referral network for off-site opportunities, Covenant House services for shelter, and caring and efficient staff in house who can assist with a variety of solutions for homeless youth. Our services include opportunities to recover identification, get a drivers license and obtain transportation to job interviews, counseling or evaluation, and legal appointments.
