PACE Tour

Post date: May 10, 2015 7:25:28 PM

On April 21, we had a tour of the PACE Center for Girls in New Port Richey. Their new building faces the street where the West Pasco Government Center is located. PACE provides a safe, learning environment for troubled girls. Two of the teens led us on our tour and shared stories of how they came to PACE and what it has done for them. We spent a couple of hours learning about the facility and the program.

Currently much of the building is still under construction. We saw rooms that will be the library and computer center. Many local groups are providing funds for setting those areas up. Small class sizes, mandatory social counseling sessions, and an elaborate point award system encourage students to face issues and learn productive behaviors. The teachers are skilled at keeping students involved. PACE is a voluntary program supported by Dept. of Juvenile Justice, Dept. of Education, private grants and contributions.

The Mission: “PACE provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy.”

The Philosophy: “PACE values all girls and young women, believing each one deserves an opportunity to find her voice, achieve her potential and celebrate a life defined by responsibility, dignity, serenity and grace.”

We were impressed with the dedication of the staff and the success rate of the program.

PACE holds an annual breakfast fundraiser in February that Alice and I attend. Think about joining us next year so we could fill a Pasco NOW Table.