Youth Center Officials Cite Positive Response

Tustin Family & Youth Center, a $1.5-million project that opened this month to serve low-income neighborhoods in the southwest area of the city, is already bustling with activity, recreation superintendent Gary Magill said.

“The first day we had 60 kids, and [Tuesday] we had 130,” he said Wednesday. “We’ve only been open a few days. It’s been a very positive response.”

The 6,000-square-foot center at 14722 Newport Ave. provides a wide range of services for families and youth, including recreational and educational programs. It offers art classes, individual and family counseling, mediation services, parent education and a community garden.

A key feature is a six-station computer center where neighborhood children can gain on-line experience.

But most important, Magill said, the center offers wholesome after-school activities.

“I asked some of the kids what they did before, and they said, ‘Oh, we played in the alleys near the apartments,’ ” he said. “We’re trying to give them some positive experiences.”

The center was funded with a grant from the Tustin Community Redevelopment Agency and federal Community Development Block grants. It was developed by the city and a citizens group, Tustin Area for Families and Youth Coalition.