Spectrum Youth & Family Services
In 1970, a group from the Burlington community wanted to start a shelter that would house the growing number of at-risk youth who were running away from their foster homes. Spectrum was the result and in 2009, Spectrum was nationally recognized as the Agency of the Year by the National Network for Youth.
Their mission is "to empower teenagers, young adults, people with a history of violence, and their families to make and sustain positive changes through prevention, intervention and life skills services. Because of this, Spectrum is a safe place for homeless and at-risk youth to eat a meal, use the telephone, do laundry, get clothing, and take a shower. For a number of years, the CSCE has donated and prepared community dinners. Groups of 3-5 students and a student leader meet at the Center (Skiff Annex) and go to Spectrum together to prepare a meal.