Center for Youth Services

In 1971, a group of students from Brighton High School had an idea to create a “center” that would meet the needs specific to youth in Rochester, NY. The philosophy supporting the vision was quite radical for the time: that young people, given information and support, could make their own positive life choices. They founded The Center to be informed by youth, for youth. The Center for Youth continues with this as our core principle. We are committed to empowering and advocating for vulnerable youth while always elevating their voices. Our mission is to provide comprehensive programs completely free, voluntary, and confidentially.

We provide programs that are delivered with great respect for and full participation by youth. We provide these services with the deep belief that young people, given information and support, want to and can make their own positive life choices. The Center continues to operate each of its programs during these unprecedented times, relying on a dedicated team front-line workers that provide housing and supportive services support 24/7 365 days a year.