Youth center to open April 15

The Libby Youth Center will officially open its doors at 3 p.m. on Friday, April 15, providing a safe environment for Libby’s youth to relax, study and just enjoy each other’s company.

The center is housed in the old masonic lodge at 1218 Utah Avenue, which was purchased by Hank Maxim and donated for use as the new youth center. Since purchasing the property, Maxim and his team have been working diligently to refurbish and remodel the old building to serve as a gathering place for Libby’s middle and high school aged youth. The center is stocked with pool tables, arcade games, pinball, board games and a variety of entertainment options as well as a craft area with hundreds of ceramic molds and kilns, pottery wheels and other crafting equipment and supplies.

The center also has a large study area for youth to form study groups and arrange tutoring. The center is actively recruiting tutors to assist youth with homework and study projects.

In order to ensure the safety of the youth at the center, all volunteers will be subject to background checks through sexual and violent offender registries. 

“The Libby Youth Center sincerely appreciates any donations and volunteer assistance the community can help provide,” said board treasurer Laura Tindall. “Hank bought the building and most of the games and supplies, but we’re going to need the community to be involved to help us keep this going and provide a fun and safe place for our community’s young people. The center is an IRS-approved non-profit, so donations are tax deductible.”

The Libby Youth Center will have a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, May 11 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. The party will include a free barbecue dinner, but donations will be accepted.