by Cheryl Stahle

Carmen Hicks

Walls where you can leave your mark.  A safe place that keeps you off of the street.  People who have worn your shoes before and understand what the life of the “lost child” feels like.   This vision of a safe haven for teenagers who lack a support system is becoming a reality because of this month’s Happening Hero, Carmen Hicks, 23, of Doylestown.

In collaboration with CB Cares and Doylestown United Methodist Church, Carmen and her team of now “misfit young adults” are opening a community center for those youth who don’t quite fit the mainstream mold but have nowhere to go.  Typically, we find them gathered around town just sitting.

While many of these teens look tough on the outside, there are many broken hearts and lost souls hidden underneath the hair and clothes.  The recent overdose of friend and original “lost child”, Steven, launched Carmen and her team into action.  During the funeral roughly 100 sobbing kids sat in the church and some disclosed rehab experiences and abuse both in public and in private.  Some kids just wanted a hug.  Carmen felt this huge aching need for support, with a safe place and supportive people.   Specifically, people who have experienced a similar upbringing.

Those teens considered high risk youth from middle school through high school are invited to the house.  In a nonjudgmental and nonpartisan environment, teens can relax or chat with a team leader who has “been there, done that” shares Carmen.    The collective wisdom of the advisory board will help facilitate conversations and build trust with the group ultimately hoping to become the public face of the Lost Kids.

Due to the oversight by DUMC and CB Cares, the facility will adhere to background checks for all workers and remain drug, cigarette and alcohol free.  Referral information will be available for social services as well.   Carmen is beginning to collaborate with the Synergy Project which aids youth up to age 21 who are homeless.

Carmen still seeks donations of supplies for the venue.  An official launch of the program is scheduled for spring in Doylestown.   If interested in either being a supporter or visitor to the center, contact Carmen directly at carmenhicks89@gmail.com.

We Are Supported By: