TreeHouse is a faith-based, nonprofit organization that reaches out to troubled teenagers through no-cost counseling, mentorship and group activities. Support groups are an important part of TreeHouse's services, allowing young people in grades 6 through 12 to meet in a confidential, safe environment with other kids their own ages who have many of the same problems. TreeHouse staff will pick up children from school and drive them to TreeHouse activities, which include service projects and mission trips.
The Shakopee Branch of the Jaycees is the largest in the nation with 171 members, who work together in a community development organization. Members work together to raise funds and awareness for children and youth groups, and community service projects. Members also promote civic involvement in the community as well.
The focus is on individual development for growth -- teaching leadership skills to members to be used in their outside employment as well as within the group. To see everything the Jaycees are involved in, please visit their website, they are always looking for new members!
Kids 'n Kinship is a mentorship program that aims to provide positive role models for children ages five through sixteen. Administrators carefully match adult, couple or family mentors with children based on common interests and other criteria. The matched pairs then simply spend time together. This organization serves to promote, revive and nurture a sense of community, thus attempting to fulfill the adage, "It takes a village to raise a child."
The Northfield Union of Youth is a non-profit youth-run youth center in Northfield. The Youth Board meets weekly to plan programs, events and the general operations of the center. There is also an Adult Board that meets monthly to help guide the youth if necessary, as well as to offer advice on the group's financial issues. Membership is free for young people aged 12 to 20 and the public is welcome to join in on the meetings, which are held at their location on 6th Street, called "The Key."
