Lake Helen Youth Center

History

In 1996, the City of Lake Helen’s Police Chief, Keith L. Chester, and community volunteers founded the Lake Helen Police Department Teen Program.  The program was operated out of Lake Helen’s Youth Center that is located in Blake Park. Over time the program outgrew the Youth Center and a new facility was needed.

In 1999, the long journey to build a new facility began. Chief Chester and community volunteers raised the funding and gained the support necessary to build the Creative Arts Café. The Creative Arts was also funded in part through the County of  Volusia’s E.C.H.O. grant program.

In 2007, what was once only a dream became a reality through the efforts and kindness of hundreds of volunteers, donors, and businesses. The Creative Arts Café was opened and dedicated in the memory of Michael W. Bishop.
Teen Program Goals

Provide a fun , safe, supervised environment for teenagers to spend their free time and to expand their minds through art, music, and educational programs. In the end, working towards reducing juvenile crime and helping teenagers become productiveand well-rounded adults.