The responses we received were surprising to a number of the folks on the committee. The kids made it clear that they wanted a safe place free from harassment and violence. Several of the older kids made it clear that they were not interested in a hangout center. They wanted a place with structure and clearly defined boundaries. But, on the whole, kids want structure.
Structure brings security.
Though they may fight against boundaries and limits, they need them for stability. When they signed in at the front door, they gave their ID card. The card had all pertinent emergency information on it and a signed statement saying that they would abide by all the rules of center. Each kid went through an entry interview his first time at the center to be sure he clearly understood the guidelines and procedures. Each student signed a covenant sheet agreeing to follow the rules or be removed.