October 16, 2021
Lee’s Summit based Pro Deo Youth Center is hosting its third annual fall FUN fundraiser, GAME ON on November 4, 2021 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lee’s Summit. With life size games like Operation, Plinko, Kerplunk, and Connect Four, the fun event is an opportunity for adults to play like a kid again! In addition to over a dozen games, there will be food, drink, a rock, paper, scissors tournament and lots of raffle prizes. The more you play, the greater your chances to win.
Celebrating their 10th year, Pro Deo Your Center works with underserved teenagers in eastern Jackson County, a substantial portion of whom have a history of multiple trauma exposure, mental health issues, and socioeconomic issues. Their goal is to help every teen be loved, valued and equipped for the changes life will bring.
In providing a safe, empowering and fun environment for teens to thrive, Executive Director Elaine Metcalf noted that what Pro Deo has accomplished in the past 10 years sets the stage for future development and caring for teens with a range of needs. “The year ahead is sure to be a monumental one for Pro Deo,” Metcalf said. “Our focus for this school year is to help young people grow up successfully by having the chance to practice social emotional learning. We want our teens to engage and contribute to the world around them and specifically in our community.”
Numerous success stories attest to the impact Pro Deo has made on more than 800 teens’ lives throughout the years. Most of the activities take place after school and during summer hours at their headquarters at 214 NE Chipman Road Lee’s Summit, Missouri, or at local parks, churches, and businesses. The calendar of activities (programming) meets five pillars of effective extended learning programs: Social and Emotional Learning, Creative Art Expression, Health and Wellness, College, Career, and Job Skills, Academic, STEM, and Service Learning. Currently 10 hours of programming per week are offered in addition to one-on-one counseling sessions, tutoring, and outreach activities. This year a learning garden was added thanks to the support of all three Lee’s Summit Rotaries and St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.
All proceeds from the GAME ON Event will help Pro Deo Youth Center continue to meet the needs of our community’s teens. Tickets are $30 for those who pre-register or $35 at the door and include food, one drink, and two game tokens. For more information, to volunteer or sponsor and to register, go to http://prodeoyouthcenter.org/GAMEON.
