Fundraising
Every Little Bit Helps!
Deep in the heart of one of St. Charles’s treasured landmarks lies a hidden gem. STC Underground is a place where teens can hang out with friends, do homework, access computers, play video games or watch TV — all the kinds of things teens normally do after school and on weekends. More than 1,000 local teens are members.
With its classic leather sofa and chairs to its impressive bank of computer terminals and gaming equipment, the Underground is every teenager’s dream environment. A microwave oven and beverage machines are available, while entertainment systems serve up the latest movie releases. There’s a stage where budding musicians can “strut their stuff” and pool tables where friends can “shoot some stick.” Tables and chairs provide a quiet place to do homework, aided by direct computer access to resources via the internet. Both drug- and alcohol-free, the Underground offers a safe, friendly and comfortable environment for students in grades 6-12.
Open 40 hours each week, the teen center staff’s mission is to provide structure and attention, helping teens build interpersonal skills, enhance their self-esteem and discover new interests. The staff have personal, educational and professional experience qualifying them to work with youth, but what separates them from their peers is the level of compassion and involvement both bring to their work. Spend any time talking to them about the Underground and the students they see there every day, and their enthusiasm and caring shine through, from their concern for the kids’ well-being to their pride in the teens’ accomplishments.
Fundraising Events
“Flock the Yard” Pink Flamingo Fundraiser
Support your local youth and teen activities while having some pink flamingo fun! Send a flock of plastic pink flamingos to a location of your choosing — a friend or relative’s house or your neighbors front yard. All flocks must land at a residential address within the St. Charles Park District’s boundaries. For an additional fee, acquire “Flock Defense Shield” to prevent the flamingos from flocking your own lawn. Proceeds benefit the STC Underground Teen Center. For details: click here (link available soon)
Community Garage Sale
Keep all the profits from your sale! More than 100 homes participate annually! For details: click here
Holiday Fundraising Campaign
Making an end-of-year tax donation? Consider supporting your local teens! The annual average attendance record of 3,500 visits clearly indicate that STC Underground Teen Center is enjoyed by teens of all ages. To make a contribution of any amount: click here
How Teens Help Raise Funds
- Grant Presentations
- Bake Sale
- Holiday Gift Wrapping
- Car Wash
- Concession Sales