Youth Activities Center caters to kids

"We have a great place because there are so many activities for them to do. All our activities are not only fun, but they learn at the same time. We offer Boys and Girl's Club Programs that are interactive and teach them things. We are also communicating with their schools so we know what they are doing and can tie in with their curriculum," said YAC Director Megan Elliot. "And, they never get bored here."

The YAC features 13,000 square feet of space which is more than five times larger than the old center. This means the center can accept more children into their programs. In the past, we've only been able to take about 120 kids for summer camp. This year, we plan to host 200 kids and up our staff," added Elliot.

Youth Activities Center Counselor Ashley Yarborough passes out bingo pieces to a group of kids during the Fitness Authority Club.

As you walk into the new center you will find office spaces, a conference room with a kitchen and the reception area.

Through the glass doors are a game room with air hockey, pool table, jukebox, Dance Revolution machine and foos-ball table.

Off to each side are six color-themed rooms with various activities to keep the children busy. The teal room or "drama room" offers dress-up costumes, a stage for performances, a home area and large TV for video games with beanbag chairs. Next door is the orange room or "work zone" which offers building blocks, Legos, Play-Do and a dollhouse.

In the purple room or "computer room," you will find numerous brand new computer stations with 15 computers allowing the kids to play video games and do research. Across the way is the green room or "science room" complete with a bunny rabbit, guinea pig, hermit crabs and plants. There is also a weather station, telescopes and an area for science experiments.

Six-year-old Tyler Lewis learns how to use a telescope in the science room.

The blue room or "art room" has numerous arts supplies so those creative kids can create their masterpieces. This room is also where the special clubs meet including the photo club, writing club and Smart Moves club which is part of the Boys and Girls Club of America.

The last room is the yellow room or "study hall" where the kids have a quiet place to do their homework or just relax.

"It's very cool here and I just love it. I play afterschool. I love the drama/kitchen room and the science room and I do my homework in the study hall," said 9-year-old Raven Jackson.

Brandon Bui, left, and Ethan Michael, both 6, put together a puzzle in the science room at the center.

A group of kids at the Youth Activities Center work in the fossil dig in the science room.

Youth Activities Counselor Susie Hitson teaches 9-year-old Gabrielle Gordon how to use a camera during a Photo Club session.