America’s teens are at risk.
- 17.5% of students carried a weapon
- 31.5% of students had been in a physical fight
- 19.9% had been bullied on school property
- 72.5% have had an alcoholic drink
- 36.8% have used marijuana
- 46% have had sexual intercourse, and 13.8% had sex with four or more people
- 13.8% had seriously considered suicide; 6.3% had attempted suicide
*According to the 2009 National Youth Behavior Survey
We all have a story.
Many of Nashville's teens have a tragic one.
Stories about being ignored, misunderstood and marginalized.
Stories fueled by abuse, depression, gangs and abandonment.
Stories expressed through despair, drugs, violence, hopelessness and suicide.
No support. No encouragement. No parental guidance. No love.
Rocketown has been changing stories in Nashville since 1994.
THE MISSION: Sharing God’s love with teens through creative programs and mentoring relationships that are culturally relevant and eternally significant. They do this with programs and activities that are of interest to them. Once inside, a tireless staff builds relationships with these kids because they value them as individuals. They help them find their passion. They help them achieve their dreams. They help guide them in making better choices. They show them options and possibilities. Most importantly, they wrap them in love.
The 2010 investment in the story paid off with dividends.
- 1500 kids a week experienced the many programs, facilities and devoted staff.
- Free after-school support was provided to 60 low-income teens, including academic tutoring and creative learning classes.
- 500+ free meals were provided to kids in needs through the Rocketown Food Plan.
- 16 suicide attempts were successfully prevented and free counseling provided.
You also have a story. Rocketown is a place where our stories merge.
- Join a kid’s story and help them do better in school.
- Join a kid’s story and dramatically turn a life headed toward prison to a life headed toward a positive career.
- Join a kid’s story and share your own story of how a few simple decisions and influential people kept you from a tragic end.
I am appealing to you: please join me in the story of Rocketown. Rocketown generates 50% of their annual operating budget through its on-site business areas. Our investments make up the difference. It helps kids with Algebra homework, music, dance and art lessons, food scholarships, crisis counseling and more. Come by and meet the kids and staff. Lead a workshop. Attend Skatechurch. These kids need your full resources of time, talent and treasure.
Your tax-deductible investment by December 31 will be matched 100% .
Please help us write stories with better endings.
Please click here, learn more and invest in the story...of a lifetime. www.rocketown.com/donate
May the blessings of what we give during this season be the greatest gift we receive.
Brian
