About Programs Community News & Events Support Us Thriving Teens Ages 14–17 Our Thriving Teens program, formerly the Boston Youth Network, provides free after-school activities and care for East Boston youth ages 14 to 17. Thriving Teens is a space for young people to thrive, grow, and learn individually and together, without a financial barrier. Success Driven Goals The goal of our Thriving Teens program is to support the youth of East Boston to develop academic, social, emotional, and leadership skills, and to build connections with their peers. Our program helps to improve attitudes toward school, increase academic achievement, and expose youth to different career pathways. We also lead activities focused on reducing stress, increasing positive coping skills, and developing self-esteem and leadership skills. Cultural & Economic Diversity We believe diversity in East Boston makes our community a better place to live, which is why our network of Thriving Teens reflects the diversity of youth in East Boston and surrounding neighborhoods. 80% of teens in our program are young people of color, and 80% have families who are low-income. We strive to design programming and cultivate a space that is inclusive, accessible, safe, and welcoming for teens and families of all backgrounds, abilities, and lived experiences. Our Thriving Teen programming is 100% free for all youth. Lots to Do Weekly activities are centered around the five pillars of joy: Relationships, Purpose, Mindfulness, Fun, and Fitness. Youth participate in group icebreakers and games, thoughtful discussions, organized sports, and mindfulness practices as well as plan service projects to engage the community of East Boston. We also provide homework assistance, career and college readiness workshops, as well as leadership and technical training. Data Driven We ensure the success of our program by tracking the achievement of our Thriving Teens using surveys and self-assessments, as well as participating in coaching sessions and training to improve curriculum and program quality. Is your teen ready to thrive with us? 100% Free Enrollment for all youth. Fill out the form or email program coordinator for more information. Name * First Name Last Name Email * Phone (###) ### #### How many children are you interested in enrolling? * Joy is Not a Solo Sport In the Summer of 2019 and 2020, we developed the Joyful Eastie Youth Council to engage youth in creating a more joyful East Boston community, for all. The teens who participate learn about key factors for living a joyful life, and then develop and implement approaches to increase both personal and community joy — all while getting paid for their service to themselves and East Boston. The Council draws on evidence of what matters most for joy, with a focus on four main pillars: Relationships, Purpose, Mindfulness, and Fitness. Through Joyful Eastie, youth reduce stress, increase positive coping skills, reduce social isolation, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, increase leadership skills, access direct mental health support, and increase positive engagement with adults, organizations, and peers. Join Us Learn more about our other programs Early Learners Ages 2 months–5 years Learn More Bright Minds Ages 5–14 Learn More Active Adults Ages 65+ Learn More 68 Central Square East Boston, MA 02128 Programs Community News & Events About Careers Contact Us Thank you to our supporters: Newsletter Sign Up Sign up for the latest updates Email * Made with Squarespace