‘Help is not forthcoming’: POOF Teen Center in Durham faces closure amid financial crisis

DURHAM, NC – A Durham-based organization dedicated to empowering local youth is on the brink of closure due to financial difficulties. The POOF Teen Center, founded by Destiny Alexander, has been serving young people for nearly three years but may be forced to shut its doors unless immediate funding is secured.

“I believe in the youth of Durham,” Alexander told CBS 17. “That’s why I’ve used my own money to keep this going. But now, without help, I have no choice but to consider a temporary closure.”

The teen center, located in Wellons Village, provides mentorship, entrepreneurship training, and a safe space for young people after school. However, with monthly rent costs of approximately $4,700 and dwindling financial reserves, Alexander said the center is running out of time.

The Role of POOF in the Community

The POOF Teen Center currently serves 57 young members, offering programs designed to teach financial independence, entrepreneurial skills, and personal development. Parents rely on the center for structured, supervised activities for their children, particularly in the hours immediately after school.

“It’s about security,” Alexander explained. “Parents don’t always know where their kids are after school. Without a permanent space, we may have to resort to online programming or weekend meet-ups.”

Over the past few years, Alexander has personally invested around $200,000 to sustain the program. Despite this, financial struggles persist, and without additional support, the center could close as early as February.

Citywide Challenges in Nonprofit Funding

In response to the financial difficulties faced by organizations like POOF, Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams launched the Bull City Future Fund last fall. The initiative aims to support nonprofits focused on youth outreach. However, according to Mayor Williams, the grant application process has been delayed due to a lack of sufficient donations.

“What’s happening to Destiny Alexander and the POOF Teen Center should not happen in this city,” Williams said. “We have over 300,000 people in this community. Organizations doing life-changing youth work should not be struggling financially.”

Nonprofit organizations across Durham face similar hurdles when it comes to securing sustainable funding. Many rely on grants, donations, and community contributions, but the application process can be complex and time-consuming. Alexander noted that she has been applying for multiple grants but needs assistance in writing and navigating them.

A Call to Action

In an effort to save the center, POOF has launched a GoFundMe campaign. Community members, businesses, and philanthropists are encouraged to contribute. Alexander’s long-term goal is to secure funding to purchase a permanent facility, ensuring the program’s stability for years to come.

For those interested in supporting the POOF Teen Center, donations can be made directly through their GoFundMe page or by reaching out to local grant-writing organizations willing to assist.

As Durham continues to grow, the survival of programs like POOF plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s future. To stay informed on issues impacting the community, subscribe to the Bull City Citizen for in-depth reporting and local updates.

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