History

 In 18th Century after the birth of Industrial Revolution, young men left their
homes to migrate to big towns for employment and better education.
 Small youth groups were formed by youths following this migration culture.

• In 1844, Young Men’s Christian Association

(YMCA) was set up by George Williams
(followed emergent youth migration
culture)

• YMCA spread to other British Cities in late

1840s and became global organization in
1850s
• During World War I, YMCA
established and maintained “huts”
that provide basic comforts and a
touch of home to soldiers

Poster of World War I showing YMCA hut set in woods with soldiers
outside relaxing and playing games
In 1902 Woodcraft Indians was set up by
Ernest Thompson Seton. This woodcraft
scheme had strong influence on later
youth programs and organizations
especially “THE SCOUT MOVEMENT”
In 1907 Scouting was founded by Robert
Baden-Powell with core idea of military
scouting.
After World War II, strategies of preventing
World War III were:
• To set up youth organizations
worldwide
• Have youth with similar field of interest
organize and participate in youth
exchanges
• Hence youth from different countries
get to know each other and bring
positive experiences to society
 From this historical event we can depict
the role and goal of our youth centers
• Build such a beautiful space where
youths can share their experiences and
common interest
• A place where youths are united by
humanity although differentiated by
culture and religion
• A place to share positivity to society
 History of Drop-In Youth Centers

Later studies showed youths expected

following from youth centers
• Staff that will listen and respect them
• A safe environment to socialize and be
themselves
• A wide variety of programs including
sports and specialized classes

Hence drop-in youth centers became

widely popular after 1995.