By Brittany Llorente
Bllorente@hometownnewsol.com
MARTIN COUNTY - The goal of the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department's X-treme Teen program is to create fun activities and give teens something to do in a safe environment. But sponsorships are needed to keep programs like this free.
Through a grant from the Children's Services council, the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department is able to host several events ranging from movie nights to skate and surf competitions.
Deanna Deakins, Martin County Parks and Recreation Department aide, aims to provide fun and safe events that are drug-free and alcohol-free.
"People are always complaining that there is nothing productive for teens to do," she said. "These events get them out of trouble."
Additionally, because most of the events happen during regular dinner time, the department purchases food and drinks for event-goers.
"I like to do my best to bring food to the teens so the parents don't have to pay out of pocket for them," Ms. Deakins said. "Parents are used to having to shell out $20 to $30 for a movie night and we hope they'll come to these events so that they don't have to do that."
The grant money only provides for the event costs. The pizza and drinks are purchased with donations from sponsors.
With a $100 sponsorship, the sponsor company's logo will be placed on event fliers and signage or a company banner will be placed at the event.
A Martin County Parks and Recreation Department dodge ball tournament will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14 at Mary Brogan Park, 5050 Willoughby Blvd., Stuart, for teens.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities for the X-treme Teen program, call (772) 463-2801 or email teens@martin.fl.us.