Energy Grows in the NABI Youth Space

Written By Basmala Ahmad
 
 

Blossom House’s NABI Youth Space, housed in the community center’s lower floor, is abuzz with activity and opportunity this spring. Designed as a youth-centered space for creative expression and social engagement, NABI is beginning to transform—just like the butterfly symbol it’s named for. The free and flexible multi-use space is packed with materials for making, whether the medium of choice is painting, knitting, robotics, or podcasting. 

“We are so excited to see young people dive into their interests and hobbies here at NABI,” says program director Ariackna Gonzalez. “We can’t wait to see all the fun, creative projects these teens create.”

In addition to NABI’s ongoing Monday through Thursday afternoon and evening drop-in hours (see complete schedule below), this spring the space will host a series of workshops on topics suggested by community teens. On April 17, youth can join for Teen Game Night, on April 24 they can attend Unplugged Teen Talks, presented in partnership with Commún, and on April 30 all are invited for a Teen Self-Defense Workshop.

 
 

April

17th

Teen Game Night

April

24th

Unplugged Teen Talks

April

30th

Teen Self-Defense Workshop

 
 

In exciting news, the Digital Production room is now open for use during standard drop-in hours. Here NABI teens can record music and podcasts, experiment with video editing and animation, or develop and launch their own website.

In May, NABI is hosting a Youth Resource Fair (Saturday, May 17 from 5–7 p.m.) where teens and their parents can learn about upcoming summer programs, internships, and employment opportunities within Southwest Denver. On May 12, the Athena Project is offering a creative workshop from 5–6 p.m. Also in May, LEGO STEM kits will join the space, and through May 31 FAFSA/CAFSA assistance will be available by request to our DU fellow Maya Barrientos (email maya.barrientos@du.edu for more details).

 
 

MAY

12th

Athena Project’s Creative Workshop

MAY

17th

Youth Resource Fair

ThrougH May

31st

FAFSA/CAFSA assistance will be available by request

 
 

“I’m looking forward to working alongside young, creative people and cultivating an environment where they feel free to express themselves,” assistant program manager Riley Lane shares.

To stay up to date on all things NABI, follow along on Instagram @nabiyouthspace.

NABI Youth Space April–May Calendar

Drop-In Hours:

  • Monday: 4–6 p.m.

  • Tuesday: 4–8 p.m.

  • Wednesday: 4–8 p.m.

  • Thursday: 4–6 p.m.

Summer Drop-In Hours:

  • Mon.–Thurs.: 12–6 p.m.

Workshops + Events:

  • April 17: Teen Game Night

  • April 24: Unplugged Teen Talks, in partnership with Commún

  • April 30: Teen Self-Defense Workshop

  • May 12: Athena Project Creative Workshop

  • May 17: Youth Resource Fair

  • Through May 31: FAFSA / CAFSA Assistance

Basmala Ahmad