Youth Mentorship & Education
EPIC Youth Mentorship
EPIC Youth Mentorship is a weekly program designed to empower youth ages 13–18 through guidance, growth, and connection. Held every Wednesday from 4–6 PM at the Gary-Merrillville Salvation Army, the program focuses on spiritual enrichment, life and career development, and access to counseling support. While participants enjoy recreational activities, the primary goal is to equip young people with the tools, confidence, and support they need to thrive. Each session also includes a free meal, creating a welcoming space where every youth is valued.
Bloom Youth Mentoring
We believe girls who dream become women with vision—and with the right support, those dreams can truly grow. That’s the heart behind Bloom Mentoring, a program designed for young women ages 13–18 to develop confidence, character, and a strong sense of community. Bloom offers a safe and inspiring space where young ladies can grow through leadership development, creative arts, and engaging activities like fun makeup nights. More than just a program, it’s a place where mentorship and structure help guide girls through their teen years with confidence and purpose.
Shine Youth Cafe
SHINE Youth Café is a supportive and engaging program for teens ages 13–18, held every Friday from 4–8 PM. The program offers addiction recovery groups alongside mental wellness support, providing a safe space for youth to heal, grow, and connect. Participants can also enjoy creative arts activities, free meals, and incentives in a welcoming environment. With transportation available, SHINE Youth Café empowers young people to build resilience, develop healthy habits, and express themselves in positive ways.
We Are the Village Preschool & Drop-In Care
The Village Academy West is a nurturing early childhood and afterschool program dedicated to supporting children of all abilities in a caring, community-centered environment. As shown on the flyer (page 1), the program offers daycare for children ages 0–5 and aftercare for youth ages 6–12, with a strong focus on inclusivity and individualized support. Through Preschool, Pre-K, and ABA services, the program helps children—especially those with autism—develop communication, social, and life skills. With experienced educators, creative learning activities, and flexible support options, The Village Academy West creates a safe space where every child is valued and empowered to grow.
Together Time Toddler Playgroup
Together Time is a free, welcoming parent-child playgroup designed to strengthen early childhood development while fostering meaningful connections between families. Parents, caregivers, and children ages 2 and 3 enjoy interactive play, music, stories, crafts, and age-appropriate learning activities in a safe and engaging environment. Together Time also provides opportunities for parents to build relationships, exchange ideas, and access community resources that support healthy child development and family well-being.
Be the Village Foster Care Network
Be The Village is a growing collaborative of churches and organizations in Lake County committed to supporting vulnerable children and families before, during, and after foster care. What began in 2023 through a partnership between Faith Church, Flourish Church, and community leaders has expanded into a network of 15 partners working together to meet real needs and strengthen the foster care community.
Through this effort, Be The Village hosts quarterly respite nights, giving foster parents a much-needed break, and operates a network of foster closets that provide easy access to essentials like food, clothing, baby items, furniture, and household goods. Together, the Village is creating practical support systems and a stronger, more connected community for foster families.
Karate for Kids
Build confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a supportive and engaging environment! Our Karate Classes are open to ages 4 and up and are designed for students of all experience levels. Led by Renshi K. Minkah, Chief Instructor, and Sensei Caleb Briggs, Assistant Instructor, participants will develop focus, respect, physical fitness, and martial arts techniques while learning valuable life skills that extend beyond the dojo.
Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at Flourish Church in Gary, with separate sessions for youth and adults. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity for your child, a way to stay active, or an opportunity to learn self-defense, our karate program offers something for everyone.