A new year brings new opportunities at the Sewickley Community Center.
One of its programming leaders plans to build on the success of his summer youth development initiative, Mindset of a Leader, and turn it into an after-school program at 15 Chadwick St.
“Our goal with this initiative is to ensure that the Sewickley Community Center continues to be a cornerstone for connection, innovation and opportunity,” said Jaryd Boyer, founder of Premier Youth & Community Center. “By advancing its legacy and mission, we are creating a space that not only honors the past but also builds a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.”
The after-school program is scheduled for 3 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday starting Jan. 13.
It will be open to middle-schoolers that month and then available to more grade levels in February.
It runs through June 2, which is Quaker Valley School District’s graduation date.
The program is free. However, registration is required.
Meals will be provided, including Chick-fil-A on Mondays.
Boyer, a former amateur boxer, has spent years developing faith-based mentorship programs. He pulls from life experiences to relate to youths from various backgrounds. His eight-week summer program took place June through July with a graduation celebration in early August.
Boyer said the after-school program will feature a similar curriculum, including team-building exercise, positive reinforcement and how to turn losses into lessons.
There will also be special guest speakers such as local athletes, community, business and ministry leaders.
Boyer hopes to see a lot of student faces from the summer participate.
“It didn’t feel like we were doing enough,” Boyer said about the need to create the after-school initiative. “It has to be more consistent. Trying to get them back for other things was a struggle, but I know they wanted to get together.
“It’s just something more consistent for all of our kids that were coming. It’s all about giving these kids a better vision of their future.”
Weekly collaboration
Boyer said the after-school program will include a special Wednesday Bible study and fitness session in collaboration with 4:12 Sports Ministries.
The ministry’s mission is to inspire and equip athletes and coaches to train, compete and live for Christ, according to its website.
More youths from throughout the Ohio River Valley, from Monaca to McKees Rocks, are expected to be involved Wednesdays.
Boyer believes the partnership will foster a regional sense of belonging and collaboration along with providing additional resources and opportunities.
“Additionally, we will expand programming to include theatre, creative arts, engineering and innovation spaces, ensuring the center becomes a hub for builders, thinkers and creators,” Boyer said.
He said the connection between PYCC and the ministry was made through Christian missionary lines with the goal of helping people become better individuals.
The Bible study and fitness program starts Jan. 15.
Volunteer opportunities are available each day. Interested volunteers can contact Jaryd Boyer at 412-944-3013. More information about Premier Youth and its programs is available at pyccenter.org.
