Awaken Your Potential, Rise as a Leader!
A community of youth committed to creating positive change.
Who We Are
Our Vision
At THE CENTER, we envision a world where every young person has the opportunity to thrive. We believe that with the right support, resources, and opportunities, youth can not only realize their dreams but also drive positive change in their communities. Together, we strive to empower the next generation to reach their fullest potential and create a brighter future for all.
Our History
Founded in 2024, THE CENTER embodies the spirit of collaboration and hope, born from the partnership of two dedicated 501(c)(3) organizations, Destiny of H.O.P.E. and P.E.A.C.E. Together, we recognized an urgent need in the City of Columbia and came together with a shared vision: to empower our youth in a safe, nurturing environment that fosters leadership and growth.
Our mission goes beyond mere programs; it’s about creating a vibrant community where every child feels valued and supported. With year of impactful work already laid by both organizations, THE CENTER is not just a new initiative—it’s a heartfelt continuation of our commitment to uplift young lives. By joining forces, we believe we can create lasting change, inspire hope, and build a brighter future for our children and our community.
Our Programs
At THE CENTER, we are proud to offer a diverse range of programs tailored to the unique needs of young people in our community. From academic support through our tutoring program to career readiness initiatives, we equip youth with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary for success in life. Our programs are designed to inspire confidence, foster growth, and empower each individual to reach their full potential.
ACTIVE LEARNER'S DAY PROGRAM
Our Vision
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Our Programs
At the Center, our vision is to create a world where all young people are supported, empowered, and equipped to reach their full potential. We believe that every youth—regardless of background, life experiences, or circumstances—deserves access to the tools, guidance, and opportunities necessary to thrive and succeed in life.
Our Programs
Get HELPWHERE YOU CAN
Our Programs
The Active Learners Day Program at the P.E.A.C.E. and H.O.P.E. Center for Youth provides a structured, supportive environment for students who have been suspended, expelled, or are homeschooled. Our goal is to keep students academically engaged while promoting personal growth and accountability. The program includes the following key com
The Active Learners Day Program at the P.E.A.C.E. and H.O.P.E. Center for Youth provides a structured, supportive environment for students who have been suspended, expelled, or are homeschooled. Our goal is to keep students academically engaged while promoting personal growth and accountability. The program includes the following key components:
- Academic Support
- Certified Teacher & Teacher’s Aide: On-site certified educators provide instruction aligned with students' current curriculum and individual learning needs.
- Tutoring with MU Students: University of Missouri students volunteer as tutors, offering one-on-one and small group academic support in core subjects to help students stay on track.
- Certified Teacher & Teacher’s Aide: On-site certified educators provide instruction aligned with students' current curriculum and individual learning needs.
- Social-Emotional Growth Programming
- Students participate in structured lessons focused on social-emotional learning, using evidence-based curriculum to build skills in emotional regulation, conflict resolution, decision-making, and self-awareness.
- Activities include group discussions, role-playing, mindfulness exercises, and interactive workshops to promote positive peer interactions and self-reflection.
- Students participate in structured lessons focused on social-emotional learning, using evidence-based curriculum to build skills in emotional regulation, conflict resolution, decision-making, and self-awareness.
- Therapeutic Support
- Every student is required to meet with our licensed therapist, Amber Liponoga, LCSW, to address underlying behavioral and emotional challenges. Therapy sessions are integrated into each student’s personalized plan for growth and accountability.
- Every student is required to meet with our licensed therapist, Amber Liponoga, LCSW, to address underlying behavioral and emotional challenges. Therapy sessions are integrated into each student’s personalized plan for growth and accountability.
This comprehensive approach ensures students are not only held accountable for their actions but also empowered with the academic, emotional, and behavioral tools needed for success both in and out of the classroom.
Our Team
Get HELPWHERE YOU CAN
Get HELPWHERE YOU CAN
We are a team of passionate and dedicated professionals committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of youth throughout our community. With a diverse range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences, we work together with a shared purpose: to create meaningful opportunities, provide unwavering support, and build a brighter future for the next generation. .
Get HELPWHERE YOU CAN
Get HELPWHERE YOU CAN
Get HELPWHERE YOU CAN
At the P.E.A.C.E. and H.O.P.E. Center for Youth, all children enrolled in the Active Learners Day Program due to suspension are required to meet regularly with our licensed therapist, Amber Liponoga, LCSW. With over a decade of experience in mental health, Amber specializes in trauma-informed care and helps students process the challenge
At the P.E.A.C.E. and H.O.P.E. Center for Youth, all children enrolled in the Active Learners Day Program due to suspension are required to meet regularly with our licensed therapist, Amber Liponoga, LCSW. With over a decade of experience in mental health, Amber specializes in trauma-informed care and helps students process the challenges that led to their suspension. Her support fosters emotional regulation, personal accountability, and improved decision-making, ensuring every student receives the tools they need to return to school stronger and more focused.
