Changemaker Chronicles: Pemi Youth Center

Interview with Julia Dunn, Center Director

Pemi Youth Center Director Julia Dunn knows the program is working when she sees young people heading home from the Center feeling empowered and unconditionally loved. Located on Main Street in Plymouth for the past 25 years, the Pemi Youth Center continues to serve as a welcoming, no-cost after-school program for children in the area. While open to youth from surrounding towns, most attendees are from Plymouth, thanks in part to the local school bus stopping nearby.

At the heart of the center's mission is its empowerment program. As Dunn explains, “We support, encourage, and empower the youth of our community to believe in their unique abilities, work together to make the world a better place, and live their dreams today.” The center fosters a sense of fun, love, and belonging for every child who walks through its doors.

Originally launched as a small, nonprofit afterschool option, the center has evolved to offer a wide variety of programs. Dunn highlights their good fortune in having community groups that regularly visit to lead mindfulness, movement, and yoga sessions. Educational trips to the Squam Lake Science Center broaden the children's understanding of the natural world. Life skills are also emphasized. Kids tend a vegetable garden and learn to cook in the center’s kitchen, all while building confidence and independence.

Dunn hopes the program can be replicated in other towns, especially to support “latchkey kids” — those without after-school care — whose families may not be able to afford traditional options. The program’s goal is to create a home-like atmosphere where children feel safe and connected, and begin to view the staff as a second family.

Dunn enjoys giving back to the community that has been so supportive of the Center. The kids help design and decorate their annual haunted house and are a part of the holiday parade serving hot cocoa and cookies. The kids also bring baked goods to Bridge House and the older kids help serve meals at the homeless shelter.

The Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction has been a part of supporting Pemi Youth Center since 2016. With an estimated annual cost of around $1,000 per child; which includes transportation, nutrition, T-shirts, and more, the program provides vital services year-round at no cost to families. Children’s Auction dollars help support the Center’s belief that every child has unlimited potential to have a positive impact on the world.

Dunn is uniquely positioned to evaluate her program as she is a former participant entering the program as a 5th grader. It had such a positive impact on her that it shaped her career path in pursuing elementary education and youth development at Plymouth State University.

Dunn says she’s not the only former participant in town. She knows a couple others who are successful members of the community. “The Pemi Youth Center was a stepping stone to our careers and we’re now giving back to the next generation of kids”, she says.

Dunn invites volunteers to assist in mentoring and empowering participants. In order to provide consistency for the youth participants, she asks that all volunteers commit to a full year of service. Anyone who wants to learn more can reach out to Dunn at mjdunn@pemiyouthcenter.org.

Article written by Beth Osgood Dodge. If you are a Greater Lakes Region Children's Auction funded nonprofit contact Beth at beth03253@gmail.com to arrange an interview and let us spread awareness for your mission!

Pemi Youth Center