Circles of Peace opens center for youth and community programs in Nogales

In a recent meeting of the Nogales Housing Authority, significant discussions centered around the impact of the Center for Restorative Youth and Community Programs, launched by Circles of Peace in the summer of 2022. This center, located on Western Avenue in Nogales, has quickly become a vital resource for the community, serving over 1,900 individuals annually through a variety of programs aimed at fostering healing, support, and community building.

The center offers a welcoming space for youth, adults, and seniors, providing essential services that address social, emotional, and practical needs. Programs include after-school and summer activities for youth, wellness groups for seniors, and support networks for women and men. The center's commitment to inclusivity is evident, as it adapts its offerings to ensure that both younger and older community members feel a sense of belonging.

Financially, Circles of Peace invests over $90,000 each year into the center, which supports staffing, programming, and materials. This investment underscores the organization’s dedication to creating a sustainable environment where community members can thrive. The center also acts as a referral hub, connecting residents with critical resources such as mental health services and housing assistance.

Data collection plays a crucial role in the center's operations, allowing staff to track the effectiveness of their programs and adapt to emerging community needs. The use of the Brief Resiliency Scale (BRS) helps measure participants' ability to recover from stress, ensuring that the programs are not only well-intentioned but also data-driven and impactful.

The center has also fostered a sense of ownership among its youth participants, who have taken an active role in decorating and shaping the space to reflect their needs and interests. This initiative has created a safe haven for young people, where they can develop life skills and find mentorship.

In addition to youth programs, the center has expanded its offerings to include a men's support group, responding to community requests for more inclusive support systems. This initiative complements the existing women's support group, Entramigas, and highlights the center's responsiveness to the diverse needs of Nogales residents.

As the meeting concluded, the ongoing significance of the center was clear. It not only serves as a hub for community engagement but also plays a critical role in fostering resilience and connection among Nogales residents. The commitment to continuous improvement and community involvement positions the center as a cornerstone of support in the region, with plans for future events and programs to further enhance its impact.