By Quinn O’Hara

After the start of the new calendar year, Common Ground Ministries will be opening their doors to the teenage youth of Clay Center to provide an afterschool hang out spot and place to find community.

Bob Stratton of Common Ground Ministries says he and others with Common Ground were inspired to create a space for teens after recent events in the community. Stratton credits Youth Pastor Tim Roberts of the Clay Center Presbyterian Church as providing much of the effort’s inspiration:

Stratton noted that local food vendors such as the Tasty Pastry Bakery and Ray’s Apple Market will be donating cookies for the events as well. In addition to snacks, the youth who attend the events will have access to a variety of Common Ground’s facilities:

The first session will take place January 3rd from 3:30 to 5pm, and continue at the same time every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday that school is in session.