MISSION, Kan. — Youth mental health advocates celebrated with a ribbon cutting at Tyler’s House for Teens in Mission, Kansas.

The nonprofit expanded from its previous location to a new 4,000 square foot location, creating a free, safe and interactive environment for teens.

“Tyler’s House serves as a beacon for all, especially those who need a safe space to roam. Our new location promotes growth, emotional support and a place of safety because young people matter,” said Cori Hastings, founder and CEO of Tyler’s. Home for teenagers. “Our welcome mat is out and we encourage the Kansas City community to join us in empowering teens and changing lives.”

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A study of Reports from Mental Health America 45% of adolescents report that feeling alone has a negative impact on their mental health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

A 2018 report from KDHE-KIC found that there is one suicide every four days, including attempts.

“The atmosphere is very welcoming. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who came here and didn’t feel welcomed by the people who are here,” said Alastor Reynolds, a teenager who visits Tyler’s House for Teens every days. “If someone is struggling with their homework, trying to get through a song, suffering from stress or depression, people will always try to help them.”

Tyler’s House for Teens offers a variety of educational and artistic programs. The new facility offers a STEM Maker space, sensory room and large common area.

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“Tyler’s House makes me happy. I like coming here and seeing people I know,” Reynolds said. “I love playing bass and I love doing all the shows.”

Reynolds lost his father to chronic illness in 2020.

In the two years he visited Tyler House, it gave him the opportunity to heal in a space outside of the home.

“Having an outlet where he’s not with his parents all the time is helpful. He just comes here and just has chills and doesn’t do anything,” said Jenny Sterling, Reynold’s mother. “It’s different being in a space like this than being at home. I think it helps ground you a little bit.”

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Tyler’s House for Teen’s is run by volunteers during its operating hours.

It offers a variety of programs and support groups for teens struggling with mental health issues.

“We have a lot of conversations with individuals about issues they are struggling with; often there are thoughts of self-harm or suicide,” Hastings said. “We called students at 9-8-8 to get professional help.”

Sterling told KSHB that 41 support groups at Tyler’s House are confidential and do not report conversations to parents. This creates a level of trust between the volunteers and the youth served.

Tyler’s House services have grown so much in popularity that organization leaders are facing staffing challenges.

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“The new space requires more resources, as well as more volunteers and staff,” Hastings said. “That’s kind of where we rely on our community to help us.”

At the ribbon cutting Wednesday evening, local elected officials and leaders of Tyler’s House for Teens shared their feelings on the need for youth services in the community.

They also highlighted the cost involved in providing a completely free service to the public.

“I’d be a little lost without it. I come here every day after school, that’s just what I do,” Reynolds said.

Tyler’s House for Teens is located at 6200 Johnson Drive in Mission, Kansas. The basement location is under Go Pet Go Grocery and Grooming.

For more information about the services and programs offered at Tyler’s House for Teens, Click here.

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KSHB 41 reporter Ryan Gamboa covers Miami County, Kansas and Cass County, Missouri. Share your story idea with Ryan.