Activities

Because technology programs for teens are vital in today’s rapidly evolving digital age, we work hard to ensure that our Technology Lounge is always equipped with the latest tools. In Chop’s Technology Lounge, teens embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and skill building while learning technical skills such as coding and game development. 12 new state of the art gaming computers and monitors as well as Virtual Reality Headsets ensure that our members have equal access to these transformative tools for self-expression and connection. In a world where digital literacy is increasingly essential, our Technology Lounge empowers teens to not only navigate but also shape the technological landscape, fostering a generation of tech-savvy individuals equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.

Whether you’re an artist interested in perfecting your craft and polishing your portfolio or simply interested in exploring your creative side, Chop’s is your place! You’ll find open studio time, workshops, classes, and opportunities to explore mediums such as pottery and ceramics, sewing, painting, drawing and crafting. In addition to staff mentors who are passionate and knowledgeable about the arts, each year we invite professional artists to come and share their work, providing invaluable exposure to everything from fine art to digital art, performance art and beyond! And here at Chop’s, you’ll be provided with all of the professional grade art supplies that your work merits. It’s time to get creative!

At Chop’s, the three-quarter court gymnasium and impressive 35-foot rock climbing wall offer a space for members to channel their energy constructively, whether through sports, recreational games, or learning new skills alongside friends. Step into this space and you’ll find everything from laser tag to dodge ball, indoor soccer, fitness games and circuits, volleyball, and more. You’ll also find classes taught by local fitness and wellness professionals that cover everything from yoga to agility, empowering members to explore the many different and creative approaches to attaining physical well-being.

Wellness programs for teens play a crucial role in nurturing not just physical health, but also emotional and mental well-being, providing a holistic approach to self-care and personal development. Chop’s Wellness Room provides a sanctuary for relaxation and emotional regulation, featuring calming tools such as a kinetic sand tray, fidgets, and soothing lighting and sounds, offering a respite for overstimulated minds to find equilibrium. A new ‘Wellness Society’ centers on mental well-being and learning self-care techniques, equipping teens with invaluable coping skills and fostering the cultivation of healthy lifestyles that encompass the body, mind, and soul. Through our wellness offerings, Chop’s nurtures the emotional resilience and self-awareness necessary for teens to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Chop’s Work Ready Program provides teens with the foundation they need in order to identify, pursue, and ultimately meet their career goals.  Academic mentoring and one-on-one tutoring help to ensure success in school, while class instruction and hands-on experience prepares teens to confidently enter the workforce. At Chop’s, we believe that every teen deserves to feel informed, prepared, and confident, whether engaging in our college research and preparation classes or exploring all that’s available through JobsMadeReal.com. Popular among our older teens, Work Ready offers both the hard and soft life skills that often contribute to their success as they enter adulthood.

Learn more about how we help teens explore their options and successfully pursue their personal career goals here!

Chop’s College & Career Hub offers academic mentoring on an individual basis year round. By working with teens, their families and school liaisons, mentors provide a 360-degree approach to ensuring academic success. Mentors help with homework, connect teens and their families with resources, assist with career and college exploration to help widen the teens’ depth of knowledge regarding possible future college degrees as well as trade schools, and provide academic progress incentives. Teens are awarded homework help points to keep it light and fun – and when they obtain a certain number of points – free prizes abound. School supplies and full backpacks are provided at no cost year-round for any member who may need them.

At Chop’s, we equip teens with the skills and confidence they need in order to become compassionate citizens and tomorrow’s visionary leaders. We begin by offering support groups, safe spaces, and open dialogues, fostering an environment where teens feel empowered to express themselves and engage in meaningful discussions. Then, we offer teens a chance to practice these skills. With the assistance of staff facilitators, teens comprise our Member Council, a platform for collaborative decision-making and program development where their voices are heard and valued. Next, we go deep into the community for engagement opportunities, providing teens with tangible ways to connect, effect change, and cultivate a sense of belonging and purpose beyond themselves. Community engagement opportunities, ranging from field trips to ‘Meet the Candidates’ events and volunteer activities, provide teens with tangible avenues to connect with their communities, effect change, and cultivate a sense of belonging and purpose beyond themselves.