Youth Council Explores Gaithersburg Youth Centers to Shape Frederick's Future Center
Add Your Subtitle Text Here
January 17, 2025
Author
On January 16, the Frederick Youth Council took an inspiring field trip to Gaithersburg. They visited the Olde Towne and Robertson Youth Centers and the community recreation center prepare for their Visioning Session with the architectural team for the future Youth Center at 300 Scotty’s Bus Lane. The purpose of this trip was to help Council members gather ideas, explore different space designs, and understand how successful youth centers operate to better inform their own vision for Frederick’s new hub.
The visit included tours of the Olde Towne Youth Center, Gaithersburg Activity Center at Bohrer Park, and the Robertson Youth Center, where Youth Council members observed everything from open floor plans and recording studios to life skills classrooms and flexible spaces. Many were impressed by how these centers maximized their space, offering diverse programs that catered to a variety of interests. “It felt like they had something for everybody in regards to interests. That was very cool to see!” shared one participant.
The flexibility of the spaces was a recurring theme in the feedback. One member noted, “Ideas on what to focus on and what is essential—arts and fitness, life skills, storage! Open space but also the opportunity to divide. Flexibility!” Others appreciated the balance between openness and privacy, with specific praise for multi-use rooms and private staff spaces. The Youth Council also gained valuable insights on practical design elements, including soundproofing, accessibility, and security considerations.
The trip not only provided practical ideas but also prompted deeper reflection. As one participant put it, “We have to figure out what is most important to us and find a way to effectively bring it to life. We can’t do everything, but we can do some things very well.”
Armed with these insights, the Youth Council is now better prepared for the upcoming Visioning Session, where they will share their ideas with the architectural team to ensure the future Youth Center is a space where young people can connect, learn, and thrive.
Special thank you to the Staff Teams at the Olde Towne and Robertson Youth Centers in Gaithersburg for welcoming the Frederick Youth Council!
