Youth learning skills at the Elevatus Youth Center in Madagascar

Youth Center

A safe place for children to learn, grow, and discover their future potential

Why This Program Matters

Many children in vulnerable communities spend their afternoons unsupervised, exposed to unsafe environments, peer pressure, exploitation, or the risk of entering child labor. At the same time, young people rarely have opportunities to explore their talents, learn practical skills, or receive positive mentorship.

The Elevatus Youth Center creates a safe, structured environment where children can study, receive guidance, and build skills that enrich their lives — helping them grow into confident, capable, and independent young adults.

Our Mission

Providing a safe space where children can discover their potential and build the skills that shape their future.

Children participating in activities at the Elevatus Youth Center

Children engaged in community activities and celebrations at our Youth Center

The Impact

1

new Computer Literacy class opened in 2025

3

classrooms available for skill-building workshops

720+

hours of workshops delivered in 2024

55%

of participants are girls

Our Approach

1

Safe, Supervised Environment

The Youth Center offers:

  • A secure place to spend time after school
  • Supervision by trained staff
  • Protection from street risks, exploitation, or hazardous work

This ensures children are protected during the hours when they are most vulnerable.

2

Skill-Building Workshops

We offer hands-on classes that give children a chance to discover new interests:

  • Computer literacy
  • Sewing and tailoring
  • Cooking and nutrition
  • Art and creative expression
  • Basic trades and handicrafts

These activities foster confidence, creativity, and early career exploration.

3

Personal Development & Mentorship

Children receive encouragement, positive role models, and emotional support. We help them:

  • Build confidence and self-esteem
  • Develop social and communication skills
  • Strengthen resilience and coping abilities
  • Set personal goals and future aspirations

This mentorship plays a critical role in preventing school dropout and risky behavior.

4

Community Events & Activities

The Youth Center hosts:

  • Christmas celebrations and holiday events
  • Summer camps and educational trips
  • Cultural and recreational activities

These events expand children's horizons and strengthen their sense of belonging.

5

Serving Children Ages 7–18

We serve children across different age groups, each with tailored approaches:

  • Younger Children (6-10): Participate in summer camps and Christmas celebrations that offer safe, structured activities
  • Older Children (11-14): Enjoy the same events, with added access to hands-on workshops that build curiosity and confidence
  • Youth (15-18): Benefit from all activities, including computer literacy classes that strengthen their readiness for future opportunities

This age-appropriate approach ensures every child receives the support they need for their developmental stage.

Sustainable
Development
Goals

We align our actions with global development standards. This program directly contributes to:

SDG 4.4

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Youth Skills for Employment

"Substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills for employment"

Providing early vocational exposure, digital literacy, and practical skills training.

SDG 4.5

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Equal Access to Training

"Eliminate gender disparities and ensure equal access to education and vocational training for the vulnerable"

Ensuring girls and vulnerable children have equal access to skill-building opportunities.

SDG 8.6

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Reduce Youth NEET

"Substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training"

Keeping children engaged in learning and structured activities with future pathways.

SDG 8.7

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End Child Labor

"Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour and end child labour in all its forms"

Offering a structured, safe environment instead of unsafe work or unsupervised time.

SDG 10.2

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Social & Economic Inclusion

"Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all"

Empowering children from low-income families with equal access to learning and growth.

SDG 16.2

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End Violence Against Children

"End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against children"

Providing a safe space and protective oversight during vulnerable afternoon hours.

Shape a Future

Children and volunteers enjoying activities at the Youth Center

"The Youth Center gave me a place to belong. I learned to sew, made friends, and discovered I want to become a fashion designer. Now I know my dreams are possible."

- Nadia, Age 14, Youth Center Participant

A safe space can change the path of a child's life.

Your support helps children grow, learn, and build the skills that shape their future. Every afternoon spent in safety is an investment in breaking the cycle of poverty and exploitation.