It's official! The Hurlburt Teen Center has a home of its own

Published Sept. 11, 2009
By Dianne Bitzes
1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Following much anticipation for a permanent location, the Hurlburt Teen Center officially opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony, September 10, at 3 p.m.

Col. Ben McMullen, acting 1st Special Operations Wing vice commander, officially cut the ribbon with Jerry Gibson, 2009 Hurlburt Youth of the Year. The new facility is located at 133 Letourneau (Building 90318), between the Thrift Shop and Honor Guard facilities.

"I know we are all very busy, but this is a special day," said Colonel McMullen. "The Teen center's three-year nomadic journey around to three temporary facilities ends today. This historic occasion establishes the Teen Center's new permanent home."

"Recognizing an event like today takes a great deal of work and effort," said Colonel McMullen. "The result demonstrates Hurlburt families are a top priority."

Colonel McMullen also recognized the contribution of several different organizations, including the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineering Squadron and the many parents, volunteers and teens who gave of their time to create and establish the new center.

Amidst joyful chants of "go, go, go," McMullen and Gibson cut the ribbon and visitors entered the center for a tour and reception.

Soon after, teenagers fresh from a day of classes filtered into the facility and explored the many activities offered by the center.

"The Teen center offers more than just a safe, positive space for teens to chill out with the latest gaming, computing, sound mixing, movie watching, game playing, Wi-Fi and study locations," said Zollie Ford, Teen Center director. "The Teen Center offers many structured programs and opportunities for youth to develop their physical, social, emotional and cognitive abilities."

Several teens played pool on the table in the main lobby. "This is a place you can go and hang out and worry about what's what here," said 15 year old Teen Center member Katie Douglas. "I come here often because I can do whatever I want to do and have fun with my friends. "Katie added, "It's like a sanctuary; a place to go when you're not feeling well; a place to just hang out."

The space contains several creature comforts that make the teenagers feel at ease. Various murals of gaming heroes and other teen-centric artwork by local artist Jaime Aldana adorn the walls of the facility. Vending machines are also available for the teens to purchase snacks.

Air Force-sponsored programs offered through the Teen Center include: space camp, teen aviation camp, 4-H, youth worldwide bowling, and the youth employment service. Teen center members are eligible to compete for youth of the year and Congressional awards.

The Teen Center is also home to national programs such as the Keystone Club, a leadership and service organization designed to help teens ages 14-18 reach their potential and realize the impact and importance they can have on the local community.

Club members elect officers and work together to plan and implement their own activities, programs and trips. With the help of all club members, teens will have a fun and educational club that will be enjoyed offering positive experiences for club members.

Membership dues for the remainder of the year are $20; and annual membership dues begin again in January at the annual rate of $35. Weekend outings are a regular feature of the teen program.

The Force Support Squadron's website for maintains an updated list of the Teen Center's current hours of operation and upcoming trip information at their Web site, www.myhurlburt.com/youth/youth_teen.html