MYDC is committed to nurturing the development of children by meeting their academic, social, and emotional needs withing a constructive, wholesome, and safe learning environment, which places value on making positive choices as a foundation for building a productive life.

Description:
MYDC is a unique organization. From our conception in 1968, our sole purpose has been to assist parents and caregivers with total development of their children. Further, we attempt to assist each child to realize his or her potential in an atmosphere that considers individual needs. In addition to creating a place that is safe for children, the Center seeks to mobilize families from the community to participate in the development of our children. MYDC programs are youth centered. The staff and activities engage young people's diverse talents, skills, and interest, building on their strengths.

History:
MYDC was created in 1968, amidst an atmosphere of social and racial tension, as a recreational facility and alternative to street life for local community youth. Less than five years later, the community of Manchester was plagued by teenage crime and drug use, making it clear that young people needed more than a social outlet. MYDC was founded as an independent, non-profit entity through an outreach program by a group of concerned residents of the Bidwell Presbyterian Church. Parents, staff, and community members agreed that children needed tools to increase their educational, economic, and career opportunities. As a result, MYDC officially incorporated in 1975 (originally known as the Bidwell Education, Music, & Recreation Center) with a school-based curriculum in an after-school setting for children 9 to 13 years of age. Since then the organization has grown to include programs for children and youth in pre-school through young adulthood and continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the lives of children and families from the North Side of Pittsburgh.

In 1997, MYDC played an integral part in the development of the Manchester Academic Charter School (MACS). The Charter School emerged out of a need for quality, personalized education that was identified by a planning coalition comprised of MYDC board, staff, and parents of children involved in MYDC programs; community residents; school administrators; business partners; local and state government officials and School Board members. MYDC shares its facilities with the Charter School, a mutually beneficial relationship that provide savings in maintenance and operations, services. The MYDC facility is now operating at full capacity, from 7:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M., five days a week. The classrooms, multi-purpose rooms and the gymnasium are continually in use during the day.

Contact people:

Melissa Strader, Program Director, (phone), (email) Cheryl A. Walker, Executive Director, (phone), (email)

Office fax number: (412) 322-2009

Address:

1214 Liverpool Street Pittsburgh, PA 15233 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.mydc.org

Directions:

From Heinz field, travel onto Allegheny Ave. Continue through 4 traffic lights then turn left onto Liverpool Street. Travel through 2 stop signs, MYDC is located on the right hand side in the middle of the block.   Nearest Bus Stop: 16D - Pennsylvania Ave & Sedgewick, 2 Min minute walk For maps or information, please see http://www.portauthority.org/ride/ride.html

Miscellaneous Information

Are court referrals welcomed?
	Yes
Is act 33/34 clearance required of your volunteers?
	Yes