🌟 Youth Resources in Winchendon

Empowering the next generation of leaders.

Winchendon is proud to invest in its young people—ensuring that youth not only have access to meaningful activities and services, but also a voice in shaping the future of our town.

💬 Youth Voice & Leadership: The Youth Ad Hoc Committee

The Youth Ad Hoc Committee, created by the Town of Winchendon, brings together young leaders, community partners, and town officials to elevate youth voice, promote leadership, and shape local priorities. This committee serves as a key platform for young residents to:

• Provide input on town policies and planning

• Advocate for youth programs and resources

• Host events and forums for their peers

• Collaborate with town departments and civic leaders

From civic engagement to creative placemaking, the committee reflects a community-wide commitment to listening to youth and building alongside them—not just for them. INterested in attending or joining a meeting?   Contact them at mjennings@winchendon-ma.gov. 

❤️ Youth as a Community Priority

Youth emerged as a top priority in Winchendon’s Community Heart & Soul Initiative, a multi-year engagement project that invited residents of all ages to define what matters most. In hundreds of stories and surveys, residents voiced a strong desire to:

• Create more opportunities for youth leadership

• Invest in safe, inclusive gathering spaces

• Support local youth through programming, mentorship, and access to resources

These values continue to guide local planning and investment in youth-focused spaces and initiatives.

🙌 What Youth Are Doing Now

Winchendon’s youth are leading the way—here’s just a glimpse of their recent work:

• Youth Changemakers run the Sunshine Café, serving up coffee, lemonade, and baked goods at The HUB

• Youth leaders support the Community Threads Thrift Store, helping run operations while gaining job skills

• The Youth Ad Hoc Committee has hosted listening sessions, represented youth at Town Meetings, and helped plan town events

• Teens volunteer at local food pantries, farmers markets, and as part of civic projects through the HEAL Collaborative and Winchendon CAC

🏙️ Places to Go & Things to Do

Whether you're looking to connect, create, or just have fun—Winchendon has welcoming places for youth to grow and belong.

🧩 The HUB

• Bowling alley

• Makerspace and workshop events

• Teen Nights and open gym

• Sunshine Café, operated by local youth
  📍5 Summer Drive

📚 Beals Memorial Library

• Teen reading lounge and tech access

• Homework help and creative programs

• Youth volunteer and leadership opportunities
  📍50 Pleasant Street

🍋 Sunshine Café

• Youth-run business offering beverages, baked goods, and friendly faces

• Located inside The HUB
  📍5 Summer Drive

🏊 Clark Memorial YMCA

• Swim lessons, sports leagues, youth fitness

• After-school programs and childcare
  📍155 Central Street

🌳 Community Events & Teen Nights

• Teen Nights at The HUB

• Outdoor movie nights at the Amphitheater

• Seasonal events like Trunk-or-Treat, Egg Hunt, Festival of Lights

🚀 Get Involved

Interested in joining the Youth Committee or volunteering? Want to bring a new idea to life? Contact:

Winchendon Youth Programs
📧 thehub@winchendon-cac.org
📞 978-297-1667

🧭 Find Your Voice. Build Your Future.

Winchendon’s youth aren’t just our future—they’re shaping our present. Whether you're looking for leadership, creativity, connection, or fun, there’s a place for you here.