Ohio Avenue Youth Center

Located near downtown Columbus and just off I-70, Ohio Avenue Youth Center is an afterschool and summer program focused on preventing substance use, managing anger, and supporting youth affected by trauma, stress, and anxiety. The center combines tutoring, leadership groups, arts, and recreation to create a safe and positive environment. Care is community-based, giving adolescents structured support outside of residential or hospital-level treatment.Unlock Balance Through LearningThe program follows a trauma-informed and resiliency-oriented approach, encouraging youth to build coping skills and emotional balance. Evidence-based groups address life skills, anger management, decision-making, and conflict resolution. Creative outlets such as art, dance, music, and fitness add opportunities for expression and stress relief. By blending education with experiential activities, the center equips teens with tools to manage peer pressure, regulate emotions, and develop lasting confidence.Inspire Change Through CreativityYouth also participate in gender-specific groups, community service projects, and enrichment activities that promote leadership and responsibility. Facilities include a full gym, fitness equipment, and a computer lab, while the nutrition program teaches healthy cooking through shared meal preparation. These unique elements foster resilience, connection, and self-expression, helping adolescents build the skills and motivation needed to thrive at home, in school, and in their communities.