The Lincoln County Youth Center (LCYC), located in Richfield, Idaho offers residents and community members a range of educational programs, youth-centered community events and a variety of other essential services.
In May 2021, Lincoln County received $225,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CBDG) funding and an additional $60,000 in CDBG-CARES funding from Idaho Commerce to assist with necessary upgrades for the youth center.
Funds allowed the county to make upgrades to the building such as improving ventilation, replacing the existing HVAC system, creating ADA-compliant parking, replacing floor coverings and more.
The Lincoln County Youth Center has become a staple in the community, offering residents access to music, art and recreation activities as well as computer training and technology education.
In addition to academic subjects such as reading, math and science. LCYC also offers diverse programs to teens that range from learning to cook to acquiring leadership skills. Recently, a garden was added, where all children participate in growing their own vegetables.
“The CDBG grant and additional Cares funding have literally changed lives in Lincoln County,” Lincoln County Commissioner Rebecca Wood said. “We serve over 40 kids in after-school programming, 24 in preschool and 40 additional in summer programming and our numbers are growing! We also serve families on a weekly basis, in childcare needs, parenting and literacy classes, fun family events, a food bank, senior walking paths and much more! I am so thankful for the Department of Commerce and all the help they have given us on this project! It’s made a HUGE impact to the kids and families of our community!”
This project is just one of many funded over the CDBG program’s 50 years in Idaho. Learn more here.