Child and Family Charities

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YOUTH HOUSING CRISIS HOTLINE: 877-833-3689

BECOME A FOSTER PARENT

YOUTH HOUSING CRISIS HOTLINE: 877-833-3689

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Youth & Family Support Services

Dart Foundation Youth Drop-In and Education Center

About

The Center will open on Monday, March 2nd! Come and check us out!

The Dart Foundation Youth Drop-In and Education Center—located in the heart of Lansing and easily accessible along a major bus line—exists to make safety, support, and opportunity available to the young people who need it most. The center provides a welcoming space where youth can take a breath, find connection, and access resources that help them move toward stability, confidence, and long‑term success.

Youth ages 12–24 are invited to stop in and spend time in a calm, judgment‑free environment. Whether someone needs academic support, emotional guidance, help preparing for the workforce, or simply a shower, clean clothes, a warm meal, and a caring adult to talk to, the center is designed to meet young people exactly where they are. For youth experiencing crisis, trained counselors are available to listen, offer guidance, and help identify immediate needs and next steps.

In addition to meeting basic needs, the DART Drop‑In Center offers hands‑on learning opportunities that build life and career readiness. Young people can explore local career pathways, learn how to manage a budget, open a checking account, understand credit, practice job‑interviewing skills, and connect with community resources and services. These experiences help youth strengthen their independence and prepare for the future they want.

The Dart Foundation Youth Drop-In and Education Center is a place to feel seen, supported, and encouraged. We welcome all youth to stop by, get to know us, and discover a community that’s ready to walk alongside them.

Hours of Operation are as follows:

Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Located at 2709 S. Washington Ave, Lansing, MI 48910—right off the CATA bus line

For more information, contact Mandi Woodward, Dart Youth Center Coordinator at mandi.woodward@childandfamily.org. 

Resources

Below is a link to our Wish Lists to keep the Dart Drop-In Center stocked with items that help youth get through the day. If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about the Center, feel free to contact the Dart Drop-In Center coordinator, Mandi Woodward, at mandi.woodward@childandfamily.org. 

Hours of Operation are as follows: 10-6pm

View Wishlist