Adventure Learning Centers grew from our use of adventure activities as a from of therapy (ropes courses, rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, backpacking, sailing, etc), and from our vocational programs. We began with our staff and youth to build indoor adventure courses and our own alternative schools. We converted two historic barns into these centers and are planning at least two others in counties who have committed to "primary service contracts". This means they have purchased an array of services and have made us one of their primary service providers.
These centers contain regional alternative schools, indoor ropes courses, 40 foot to 50 foot rock climbing walls, adventure challenge activities, low ropes courses, internet computer labs, music and science "labs", and provide for therapeutic group activities such as yoga, relaxation exercises, seasonal events (haunted barns), and community activity space. These activities are available on a group reservation basis and at moderate cost.
Youth in our programs help build and then help operate these centers, allowing them to become leaders within their community. Attachments to community and to positive role models is a protective factor which research has shown prevents delinquency, substance use, truancy and other high risk behaviors.
The replication of Adventure Learning Centers will soon be accelerated by our plans to construct a monolithic dome as our next site (see: www.monolithicdome.com for information). These domes are large sprayed concrete over foam buildings. They are erected quickly and are very strong, rated for 300 mph winds! YSA of PA staff have received training in this construction process and we own the specialized equipment to build them. This will allow us to involve our youth in constructing Adventure Learning Centers in those regions which accept our primary service contract offer. Counties, without increasing their levels of expenditures for education or juvenile court services, can receive a major reinvestment back into their communities. They receive a resource which can benefit the entire community as well as state of the art social services and education for their at risk youth.
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