Youth Life Center of the Arts

★★★★★Kisha-Ann Williams

Youth Life Arts Center is an amazing place for youth. They do incredible work not only for the kids and families who participate in their programming, but also beyond their doors and throughout the community. Now more than ever, with so many families struggling just to put food on the table, Youth Life Arts Center is there filling the gap. The programming and activities they provide are phenomenal and highly engaging, giving kids exposure to experiences they might not otherwise have. My son absolutely loves being there and is always excited to attend, especially the special events they host for different holidays, which are creative, fun, and truly memorable. It’s a welcoming, inclusive environment where kids are genuinely seen, valued, encouraged, and uplifted. It is a safe space. The staff is amazing—especially the founder, Mama Claressa. When you’re at the center, you can truly feel her passion and love. The staff genuinely cares about the kids and treats them like their own babies. We are so grateful for this place and everything they do. Keep up the amazing work.

★★★★★Gabrielle “xstarwolfx” Williams

My children attended camp expressions this past summer at the youth life center. Every day they came home , excited about something they had learned while at camp that day. I love the way that they keep them creatively engaged. Last year we were also in attendance at Mama Clarissa's Ginger bread house. The center provided a dinner , a gingerbread , making competition, and gave toys to every family that was there. I absolutely love the way that they give back to the community! We also received a $100 gift card this year from the center ❤️Mama Clarissa an the whole staff are amazing and I am greatful to have them in our community!

★★★★★Thomas D.

After the COVID pandemic and the shift back to in-person schooling and work, I found myself looking for a reliable summer program for my daughter. To my delight, I discovered The Youth Life Center right in my Riverdale neighborhood. Having never enrolled her in a summer camp before, we were unsure of what to expect. However, as she participated, I noticed a remarkable change in her; she became enthusiastic about learning and trying new activities, and she particularly enjoyed the meals prepared on-site. The YLC quickly felt like family, and my daughter has continued to attend ever since. They provide an outstanding summer program that teaches various skills, including technology, sewing/design, music, acting, modeling, art, and production management along with after-school and school break care. As a parent, I wholeheartedly recommend the YLC for anyone seeking quality care for their child.

★★★★★Pamella Talley

Youth Life Center of the Arts has been such a blessing to me as a divorced mom of a teen. There aren't many programs in our area that provide safe family oriented after-school care for children over the age of 12. Mama Reese, Ms. Catherine, Mr. Tyshon and the entire staff are amazing. The staff goes above and beyond always caring for the children as if they are their own. I am so thankful to have them caring for my teen after school. Lord knows teens without supervision can get into a world of trouble. So having this program available to support teens is just what our community needs. Please stop by or call to learn more. You won't regret it!

★★★★★Natasha Daniels

My son attended this Youth Life Center and we had a truly great experience. The staff kept the kids active with several fun and engaging field trips, and I really appreciated that they included some academics to help keep him fresh for the upcoming school year. He’s a very picky eater, but he always spoke highly of the meals and even started trying foods he normally wouldn’t eat! Overall, the camp exceeded our expectations, and I would definitely recommend them to any parent looking for a safe, fun, and well-rounded summer program.