The 412 Youth Zone Blog

Discover a vibrant hub of activities and support for teens and young adults at our local center. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through the exciting events and valuable services designed to empower and uplift the next generation.

The Sky's the Limit: From Barriers to a Master's Program

A dream of pursuing higher education is becoming reality with acceptance to the University of Pittsburgh's School of Education for a Master's in Behavioral Sciences. With resilience, determination, and support, this milestone proves that even the toughest obstacles can be overcome.

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Brewing Connections: YZ Café Grand Opening

Welcome to the YZ Café, a new monthly program that brings the coffee shop vibes to the Youth Zone.

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The 412 Youth Zone Annual Thanksgiving Feast: A Celebration of Community, Connection, and Tradition

The 412 Youth Zone's annual Thanksgiving feast was held on November 26th, 2025

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From Budgeting to Move-In: PREP Guides Youth Toward Housing Independence

This November, we launched our Prepared Renter's Education Program (PREP) at the 412 Youth Zone and the month was packed with learning, honest conversations, and hands-on activities that kept everyone engaged.

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A Day of Thrills

This year's Halloween festivities electrifying music, creative games, haunted mysteries, and a full-blown scare fest at Hundred Acres Manor, our Halloween celebration delivered thrills at every turn

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Community Outings Take Root at Simmons Farm

The Youth Zone kicked off its new Community Outings program with a fun-filled fall adventure at Simmons Farm, where young people and their children enjoyed hayrides, pumpkin picking, and autumn treats together.

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Fun at PNC Park

On September 15th, two Youth Zone staff members took eight young people to the Pirates game against the Cubs at PNC Park.

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Finding Resources, Building Skills: A What's Next Adventure

Youth and staff teamed up for an exciting citywide scavenger hunt for community resources during our September What's Next event.

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2025 Older Youth Retreat: Building Friendships, Skills, and Memories

The 412 Youth Zone joined youth from across Pennsylvania at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown for this year's Independent Living Retreat, themed Reach for the S.T.A.R.S.

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Rain or Shine: The Youth Zone Takes On Kennywood!

The 412 Youth Zone's trip to Kennywood on July 16th, 2025, turned a rainy forecast into a memorable day of connection and fun. Fifty-two youth & staff shared laughs, comfort food, and a few rides between showers before the park closed early, leaving with rain guarantee tickets for a sunnier return.

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Hooves & Horizons

Youth Zone staff and young adults teamed up with our friends at Venture Outdoors for a horseback riding adventure.

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From Pittsburgh to the Falls: Our Summer Road Trip

To kick off summer, the 412 Youth Zone took 21 high school students on an unforgettable road trip to Niagara Falls. From the thrill of riding the Maid of the Mist to a group dinner at the Hard Rock Café, the day was filled with adventure, laughter, and first-time experiences.

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