Trackside Teen Center In Wilton Introduces New 'Late Night' Program

**News Release Submitted by Trackside**

Trackside Teen Center introduces “Late Night @ Trackside”, an initiative created, planned and run by Trackside High School leaders. Select Friday nights each month from 8-11pm, Trackside transforms into a salon like setting for high school students.

The idea came as a result of a roundtable discussion between two high school leaders, Henry Purcell, Thomas Fletcher and Trackside Staff. Henry and Thomas saw a need for their peers to have a SAFE place to unwind, relax and express themselves without having their parents around. They noticed that their peers were overwhelmed; many were going through tough times and needed a place to just be themselves.

“We’re always in conversation with our high school students, both formally and informally around what types of activities, and experiences they need most,” says Lori Fields, Executive Director at Trackside.” As a team we’re always asking, Where’s the gap and what’s our distinct way of meeting that need? Including our students and leaders in our think-tank conversations is something that happens regularly. They know, much better than we, what they want and need.”

At Late Night, students are free to use the space as they like. There’s a wide range of activities ranging from live music (The Wandas, a high school band has played twice), chess, pool, ping pong, shuffleboard, karaoke, open mic and more.

Students are encouraged to work on personal projects and the cafe is open; serving coffee, ramen, chips, and a variety of other food and beverage options. Point Break Tacos was the first food sponsor, offering up delicious tacos for our teens.

In envisioning the setting for these evenings, it was important that the environment have a lounge type feel with comfortable couches and cozy seating areas. The setting has a completely different look and feel from after school programming for middle school students and as a result, has brought many new teens into the Trackside facility.

Although organized and run by high school students, there is always a staff member or adult from the community onsite overseeing the evening. “Late Night is an evening where you can see friends, decompress, and leave your issues at the door. Interestingly, some teens openly share their issues with their peers, feeling this is a relaxed and safe place to do so.” says Fletcher.

“We’re thrilled about this new offering at Trackside. Witnessing this idea come to life and seeing the impact it’s already had on our teens has been incredibly rewarding. This type of experience is at the heart of what our mission is all about. What looks like just a fun night out is something much deeper and profound.” says Fields.

Friday, May 12 th 8:00- 11:00 PM will be the final Late Night of this academic year. This special evening will feature live music from the Paul Green Rock Academy, a special appearance by Here For You Clothing and a truly unique opportunity to express yourself with Justin Baiad Photography.

No registration is required and entry is free.

Donations and contributions are important for this new initiative to help offset the operational, food and staffing costs. Sponsorship will allow Trackside to continue offering these enriching evenings to students for free. This new initiative has proved promising and meaningful. It will start back up at the beginning of the school year.

If you’re interested in sponsorship or donating food, please contact us at info@trackside.org