Columbus teen mentorship program getting much needed repairs

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Upgrades are on the way for an east side nonprofit that helps hundreds of teens each year.

All THAT mentors kids in academics, life skills, and career development. THAT stands for Teens Hopeful About Tomorrow. Leaders with the nonprofit are hopeful about what's to come for its building, too.

“I'm glad we have a place that we can gather with our students but I want them to know that it is designed for them," All THAT Executive Director Danella Hicks said.

All THAT runs its programming out of a roughly 65-year-old building which used to be a church. The nonprofit has been in the building on East Livingston Avenue for about ten years. Hicks said the renovations will make the space even better for students.

“It’s huge for us because we’re trying to make a difference in the lives of our kids," she said.

The nonprofit received an almost $1.3 million community development block grant. Hicks walked NBC4 around the building to point out what the money will help renovate.

The bathrooms downstairs will be redone because they often do not work properly, according to Hicks.

“We’re making the most with what we have and so this grant will allow us to improve and make sure it's functional for our kids," she said.

Upstairs, she pointed out areas where she said leaking often happens when it rains. Outside, improvements will be made to lighting.

“I want it to be a beautiful place for them to hang out, beautiful and a safe place, so having a new roof, making sure we have clean functional bathrooms, that's important to us. And I know it's basic but it's major," Hicks said.

Hicks said the work is expected to start in August.