'That's what helps make our community stronger' | Charlotte businesses seeking solutions to youth violence by providing safe summer options

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Several businesses are seeking solutions to juvenile-related crimes by providing opportunities to keep teens busy over the summer months.

Charlotte-area gyms and recreation centers are just some of the businesses stepping in to help keep kids not only active, but safe.

Summer months are meant to be fun for kids, but can be challenging for families the moment school’s out. Veronie Gamble is the senior program director with the YMCA of Greater Charlotte. She knows the struggle for families. 

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“The teens do not have a place to go or things to do,” Gamble said. 

The YMCA want to bridge that gap, by offering more than just a recreation center but a safe place for teens. 

“Providing them with things to do -- and not only things to do, but things that will help build them on both social and emotional," Gamble added.

The YMCA offers a free program during the summer called Level Up. It’s available at four of their locations: Keith Family YMCA, McCrorey YMCA, Stratford Richardson YMCA, and Simmons YMCA. 

Gamble said an important piece is connection. 

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"Connecting them with that college readiness or career readiness, as well as making sure that we're there to help build a whole family," Gamble said.

Planet Fitness is also offering safe healthy alternatives through its High School Summer Pass. 

“We want to create a space where you feel comfortable being in here and you can get a good workout.” Rob Thornton, a trainer at Planet Fitness, said. "It's just promoting a better lifestyle. I'm like, you don't realize how much it affects you at that young age. But it's developing those skills real early. That is one progress over into adulthood.” 

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It's all in an effort to keep kids in a safe space and out of harm’s way. 

“There's some things that teens can teach us," Gamble said. "So we got to be willing to be open and grow with that together. And so that's what helps make our community stronger." 

Both Level Up and the High School Summer Pass run until Aug. 31. 

Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.