Frequently Asked Questions

The mission of THE CENTER is to empower and inspire young people to reach their full potential through education, leadership development, and community engagement.

THE CENTER is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 7pm. However, certain programs and events may have different hours.

Yes, THE CENTER offers job training and employment services to help young people gain the skills and experience they need to succeed in the workforce. Additionally, we also work with the Juvenile office by providing community service opportunities for youth.

THE CENTER offers a variety of programs including mentorship, leadership development, and community service projects designed to empower young people.

The official evidence-based programs for the Center is H.E.A.T. for Youth and Rainbow Days Youth Connection.

 Yes. Through our partnership with Missouri Connections Academy, students who are suspended, expelled, or homeschooled can continue their coursework in a safe and supportive environment at the Center. Students complete assignments through Missouri Connections Academy’s online platform, with the help of our staff and tutors. This ensures they remain on track academically and receive full credit for their work. 

• Active Learners Day Program: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
   
• After-School Program: 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM

• Teen Center: 4 PM - 8PM
   
• Summer Program: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

•  Yes. We provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks during the day program, and snacks during after-school hours. 
• In the Teen Center we offer concession items for purchase

•  Yes. We provide after-school pick-up from designated middle and high schools throughout Columbia. Parents/guardians are responsible for picking up students at closing time. 

In addition to academic support, we provide:

• Social-emotional learning programs
   
• Mentoring opportunities
   
• Conflict resolution and life skills programs
   
• Recreational and cultural activities
   
• Summer career and leadership programs

• Teen Center
   

The Teen Center at the P.E.A.C.E. and H.O.P.E. Center for Youth is a one-of-a-kind space designed specifically for teens ages 13–17. It provides a safe, structured, and engaging environment where young people can express themselves, build skills, and connect with peers in a positive atmosphere.

This is more than just a hangout—it’s a purpose-driven space that blends fun, creativity, and personal development.
 

A fully equipped recording space where youth can create music, podcasts, and audio content while learning real studio techniques.

A dedicated gaming space featuring competitive and recreational play, including tournaments like Madden, promoting strategy, teamwork, and healthy competition.

Interactive games that encourage social engagement, focus, and friendly competition.

A hands-on area where youth can learn DJ skills, mixing, sound control, and music blending.

A high-energy space for movement, expression, dance sessions, and teen events.

An in-house concession area offering snacks and drinks, creating a real-world environment where youth can also learn customer service and basic business operations.

•  Parents/guardians can go to the home page on this website and fill out the application, and within 3 business days you shall be contacted for an interview. Some programs may have eligibility requirements or limited capacity.
   

• most programs at the Center are completely free, with the exception of the Summer Program, which is 250.00, and the Teen Center, which is $3.00 per day admission, or a membership of $60.00 per month.