SUPPORT for a Better Future

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Youth, families, and individuals receive support to meet their basic needs, then move forward toward short‑ and long‑term goals in areas such as finances, employment, housing, education, family life, and community involvement. Services are tailored to each person’s unique goals and circumstances. 

The Youth Drop‑In Center provides a safe and welcoming space where basic needs are met through access to food, clothing, laundry services, and connections to community resources. Available anytime by appointment at either our Stillwater or Cottage Grove locations. 

Children come together after school and during the summer to participate in fun, enriching activities that support healthy minds, bodies, and spirits. The program focuses on building social-emotional skills, exploring the arts, staying active outdoors, and includes opportunities for reading, writing, and math enrichment.

Local faith communities and groups collaborate with The Connect Center to offer a structured one-year program supporting families in need of housing stability. Throughout the program, both adults and youth work toward their goals with guidance from a volunteer community mentor and a broader support network.

The Host Home Program offers culturally responsive housing for youth ages 18–24. Depending on their needs, youth live with host families for up to one year. Hosts provide a safe place to stay and meals, while The Connect Center supports the youth in working toward their personal goals.