Bellevue Patch Whiz Kids: Ground Zero Teen Center Offers a Variety of Teen Programming

The in Bellevue is one of a number of great programs here that demonstrates Bellevue’s continuing support for youth into their teen years. A partnership of and the , the program offers multiple ways for kids from 13-18 to satisfy a variety of needs and interests, including drop-in afterschool programs, tutoring with college-age volunteers, music lessons, and free dinners on Thursdays. Ground Zero has a partnership with .

In addition, the center hosts all-ages concerts, drawing often from a pool of local teen bands to perform. The participating bands also get guidance on promotion, and the center has a music advisory board to get other teens involved in the process.

Its teen excellence center offers a variety of programming in technology, including digital arts, computer refurbishing, and robotics, as well as community service and leadership opportunities.

The program serves an average of 35 kids each day, says Lance Latimer, Teen Services director at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue. The state-of-the-art computer equipment at the teen excellence center was donated by Microsoft.