Seated around a table prepared for tea, a group of young people will meet on Saturday, August 9. Beginning at noon, the city calendar will mark the first edition of Teen Tea Time, a gathering for adolescents designed to foster conversation, share experiences, and participate in personal development activities. Organized and hosted at the Peekskill Youth Bureau, the event will run until 2:30 p.m. in the hall used for youth guidance programs.
The Youth Bureau develops activities that strengthen young people’s ties to the community. (Peekskill Youth Bureau)
The gathering is part of Project Elevate, a municipal program that supports high school students—most between the ages of 14 and 18—in exploring academic, career, and community engagement opportunities. This Saturday’s proposal adopts a more dynamic format: sitting around a table, exchanging ideas, and finding common ground in a relaxed, participatory setting.
Although the name and setting are new, engaging young people in this type of activity has long been a priority for the Youth Bureau. In recent years, it has cultivated similar spaces such as Girls Circle and Boys Council, the recreational Teen Nights, and career-focused College & Career Conversations. All have centered on facilitating communication among young people, strengthening their support networks, and fostering ties to the community.
On this occasion, the “tea time” concept reflects the intention to create a more accessible and less formal environment than a workshop or classroom-style meeting. The afternoon will include beverages, light snacks, and an open, informal setting that allows conversation to flow naturally, without interruption from a more structured agenda.
In addition to special events, the Youth Bureau offers ongoing programs in professional readiness, college preparation, empowerment sessions, podcast introduction, debate club, chess, and community service. Seasonal activities such as cooking and crafts are held in spring and fall.
The event is free and open to youth living in Peekskill and surrounding areas, but prior registration is required. The registration form is available online and at the Youth Bureau office. For more information, call 914‑734‑4149 or visit the city’s official website.
