We'd like to introduce you to some of Trackside's Teens.... the names and faces that you are helping change with your support!
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Sebastian's Story
I began going to Trackside in in middle school when a good friend of mine "dragged" me along. Walking through its doors, we were immediately struck by its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. It quickly turned into a second home of sorts, and we became weekly regulars, playing games and meeting new friends.
Fast forward five years later, and Trackside became even more significant than it had before. I was preparing to shoot my first film, and was in desperate need of the right location. Trackside provided their facility to me (at no cost!). Little did I know at the time, but this new connection to Trackside would expand to include more opportunities and experiences. Today, my involvement with Trackside continues; I am a panelist for Trackside's Rising Freshman night, create promotional videos to help them share their great programs, stories of Trackside's teens and mission and also work there part-time after school and on Friday nights. Trackside also hosted my film premier, setting up the facility like a movie theater and helping make it a special and memorable night. Trackside has been a huge part of my adolescence. It has created many memories, friendships and most importantly the opportunity to help me follow my dreams. |
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Mickey's Story
I have been going to Trackside for over 6 years. I was first introduced to Trackside in Middle School when I saw a flyer for a Super Smash Brothers tournament and decided to go and play. I continued to go to for Trackside after school programs and during Wilton Children’s Theater summer stage through 8th grade.
Even before my high school career, Trackside was the home of many great memories. Now in high school, Trackside has offered me new leadership opportunities and new ways to be involved. I joined the Student Advisory Board, to help make Trackside the best it can be, working with other high school students to come up with new programs and events. I also helped with special Middle School events, such as Elf Night and the Greatest Show, dressing up to make the night special and memorable for the younger kids. This year, in addition to helping come up with new programs and making current ones better, I began working at Trackside. I was shown a side of Trackside I had never seen before. Getting the job was a fantastic opportunity, and one in which I learn something new every day I come into Trackside. I love working with children, and this job gives me experience in interacting with the middle school kids. Providing a safe, drug-free zone for them to run around and have some fun fulfills me and helps me learn more about what my future might look like. I also work during special events for both middle school and high school kids, providing a new sense of responsibility. I really thought that working at Trackside was going to be the peak of my experiences. However, I was wrong again, when I was approached by to be a Student Representative on the Trackside Board of Directors. I went to my first meeting and was again exposed to a new side of Trackside. I realized how much work it took to keep the doors open at Trackside, and I have a new level of respect for everyone who works to do so. For a long time, I knew Trackside was destined to be something better. Over past year, Trackside has blossomed and transformed into the place I knew it could be. I love being a part of it in so many ways and I cannot wait to return. |