May 17, 2018 5 min read

Q:This isn’t exactly a question but more like a comment. I’d still like it if you would print it. I was a little nervous before I took your class. I wasn’t sure I wanted to learn about sex, but my mom made me take it. I was pleasantly surprised. I learned about growing up. That was good. We played games and I had fun. I also learned that my body is OK and that people should respect it. Older kids told me you run a teen center. Can I come to it? I’m 12.

Mary Jo’s response: Thanks for your kind words. You’re correct – my classes aren’t just about sexuality, they’re based on respect for self and respect for others. I’m thrilled you remembered my most important messages. You are a person of worth. Puberty will be exactly right for your body. You’re unique. You’ll be OK. Growing up can be challenging, but you’ll get through it.

It’s interesting that you asked about our Teen Center. We just relocated. It’s called the Common Ground Teen Center, and our new site is 92 N. Main St. in Washington. The Center is home to two programs:

1. The Teen Center for young people ages 13 to 18. It meets from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. We often remain open on Fridays until 10:30 p.m. for movie night. I hire teens to run the center, and they do an outstanding job. My students from W&J serve as extra supervision.

2. The Refresh program is for young adults ages 18 to 25. It meets Monday and Tuesday from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

Since Common Ground is a teen center, a young person needs to be 13 to attend. Last year we offered a night just for fifth- and sixth-graders, but it wasn’t well attended. If young people your age are interested, I will once more open a slot for your age group.

We’re hosting an open house next Wednesday, from 4 to 6 p.m. Tell your parents and try to attend with them. They’ll see the center is a safe place.

I asked some of our Teen Center team to share why they enjoy the center:

Tamairra Bunge: I loveee going to the Teen Center. It is such a warm and welcoming environment, and the people who go there are so kind and funny. The new center is definitely different, very modern and gives kids more things to do. There is food, great people, welcoming people, and it’s just a great place where you can truly be yourself.

Brandy Carpenter: When I went to the center I always felt safe and free to be myself. It is a place where everyone is treated equally and with utmost respect. I’m sure there are petty disagreements from time to time, but everyone was so kind to each other.

Treasure Caldwell: I love going to the Teen Center. There is always a diverse group of people there, and though everyone is different, we respect each other all the same. It’s a safe place for anyone who walks through the doors, and there has never been a time that I didn’t feel like I belonged. It’s truly a sanctuary, and I fully recommend it for anyone ages 13 to 18 to go there and socialize or just sit, relax and do your own thing.

Jacob Engel: I’ve been part of the Teen Center since ninth grade, and teaching as a Peer Educator and performing with the Real Talk Performers helped me grow as a person. The Teen Center is run by teens and is truly a safe place.

Toni Maurer: I like the center because it feels like home, but instead of parents and siblings, all of my friends are there. It’s just a great place to go to socialize while also being able to do work or play games or enjoy food.

Maci Ward: The Teen Center is one of the best places for youth in Washington! It’s a hangout for everyone, and all the people who attend are respectful and accepting of anyone who walks through those doors. There is always something to do! Definitely a place I’ve enjoyed going to the past four years.

Landan Weakland: I’ve been a Teen Center supervisor for the last 18 months. Working there is a great opportunity! There’s something for everyone. Wednesday nights are our Peer Education meetings from 5 to 7 p.m. We learn how to teach other teens. It’s a great experience.

Have a question? Send it to Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski’s email at podmj@healthyteens.com.