Our initiative perennially highlights some of the great work going on in our area that supports the goals of the larger Communities for Youth Blaine County Initiative. Every community (including ours!) has assets, so we think it's important to highlight them!
Given that both the 2023 and 2024 Blaine Co. Youth Well-being Survey data and community listening sessions hosted by the Blaine Co. Mental Well-being Initiative showed that one of Blaine County's pressing needs is decreasing youth social isolation/increasing youth social connection, we are spotlighting a local youth-serving org that is building youth connection to both peers and safe trusted adults, The Space Idaho.
The Space Idaho is physically located in Hailey and serves as a hub for local middle and high school students, offering homework help, fun activities, and much more. The program was originally created to bridge academic gaps experienced by students in the area, but the hub has evolved to do so much more.
Open Monday through Thursday, the Space offers a drop-in program that allows students to get homework assistance or participate in enrichment activities hosted at the center, the YMCA, or the Hunger Coalition. Many activities, such as cooking snacks together, emphasize teamwork and peer bonding. Students also build relationships with caring adults.
“We want every kid to feel important, to know they matter, and that adults see and value them,” said Siena Polk, The Space engagement coordinator. “A common misconception is that kids don’t want to spend time with adults after school. That’s not what we see. They enjoy chatting, making snacks, and engaging—they appreciate adults who show interest in their thoughts and feelings.” These strong, inclusive relationships encourage students to return and invite additional young people to engage.
The Space serves as a great community resource to young people and families in our area. If you know a young person who could benefit from increased social connection, consider recommending The Space. The middle school drop-in program is free, requiring only registration to join. Individual tutoring and high school drop-in academic support are offered on a sliding fee scale.
If you or your organization on working on decreasing youth social isolation/increasing youth social connection and would like to participate in future Communities for Youth Blaine County meetings or be featured in future partner spotlights, please email Community Lead Sarah Seppa (seppas@slhs.org).
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