Atlanta's At-Promise Centers Offer Safe Spaces for Teens During Spring Break

Mayor urges parents to utilize extended hours at rec centers and At-Promise Centers amid recent violence

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:24am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a youth's hand holding a pencil and notebook, the details of the hand and writing materials sharply illuminated against a dark background, conveying a sense of focus and determination in a challenging urban environment.A youth-focused community program aims to provide a safe haven and positive outlets for Atlanta teens during a period of heightened violence in the city.Atlanta Today

In the wake of a violent weekend in Atlanta, Mayor Andre Dickens is encouraging parents to find safe places for their children during spring break, highlighting the extended hours at the city's four At-Promise Centers. These centers, run by the Atlanta Police Foundation and funded in part by the city, are providing a range of programming, workshops, and activities to engage local teens ages 12 to 18 and steer them away from crime.

Why it matters

Atlanta has faced challenges with juvenile crime and violence, particularly during school breaks when many teens are unsupervised. The At-Promise Centers aim to create safe, community-oriented spaces that foster positive relationships between youth, law enforcement, and local organizations, with the goal of reducing delinquency and providing constructive outlets for young people.

The details

The At-Promise Centers' spring break programming, themed 'Hope Meets Promise,' is designed to encourage teens to explore the city's positive attributes and move beyond stereotypes. The centers offer workshops, activities, and meals, serving around 175 participants. According to Jasmine Carter, the Director of Prevention Programs, the goal is to invest in the futures of these young people by providing a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported, with the hope of guiding them towards better choices.

  • Atlanta students are currently on spring break.
  • The At-Promise Centers have extended their hours during this school break.

The players

Mayor Andre Dickens

The mayor of Atlanta who is urging parents to find safe spaces for their children during spring break.

Jasmine Carter

The Director of Prevention Programs at the At-Promise Centers, who oversees the spring break programming aimed at reducing juvenile crime and providing a supportive environment for local teens.

Marlon Sims

A 15-year-old who has been attending the At-Promise Centers for three years and enjoys their 'Passport to Manhood' program.

Atlanta Police Foundation

The organization that runs the At-Promise Centers, which receive half their funding from the City of Atlanta.

City of Atlanta

Provides half the funding for the At-Promise Centers, which are part of the city's efforts to address juvenile crime and provide safe spaces for youth.

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What they’re saying

“Ultimately we're investing in their futures, creating, again, safe spaces, fun atmospheres.”

— Jasmine Carter, Director of Prevention Programs, At-Promise Centers

“It's a great place to get away from life, if you're having a hard time, At-Promise is an amazing place to get to know new people, learn new things, and find new ways to express yourself.”

— Marlon Sims, 15-year-old At-Promise Center participant

What’s next

The At-Promise Centers will continue their spring break programming through the end of the week, providing a safe and engaging environment for local teens. Mayor Dickens has also urged parents to take advantage of extended hours at other city recreation centers during the school break.

The takeaway

Atlanta's At-Promise Centers are playing a crucial role in addressing juvenile crime and violence by creating community-oriented spaces that foster positive relationships, provide constructive activities, and invest in the futures of the city's young people. As the mayor has emphasized, these centers offer a valuable resource for parents seeking safe and enriching options for their children during school breaks.