Too many teens in Tijuana end up on drugs because they lose hope and never learn that Jesus came to give them “life to the fullest.” One of the best ways to save teenagers from a life of gangs and drugs is to love them as children. The AMA Teen Center (which stands for Alguien Me Ama, “Somebody Loves Me”) invites kids to hang out in a positive environment where they are nurtured with the love of Christ.

In addition to the lounge area, the completed facility will feature a sports court, a modest library, and a computer lab where kids can get help with homework and learn computer skills. These resources allow us the opportunity to introduce kids to Jesus and disciple them while meeting real needs. 

How to Help

Though the center is operational, there is still much to do in terms of putting up walls, flooring, plumbing, painting, and roofing. Bring down a group of able-bodied workers and lend us a hand with construction! We also need to furnish the computer lab with desks, chairs, computers, and software licenses, as well as sponsors to cover monthly internet costs. The after-school program library needs shelving and books (Spanish only), let us know if you can donate towards these needs.

AMA Programs

Breakfast Program
Every Saturday AMA hosts a free breakfast along with a Bible lesson, crafts, and time spent playing with local children. Ask us about how to sponsor a weekly breakfast or bring down a group to serve breakfast with us. The smiles on the kids’ faces will touch your heart. Your church group might consider sponsoring a Christmas Gift or Back to School event for 100 kids. Other needs include playground equipment such as soccer balls, basketball, volleyball, softballs, playground balls, jump ropes, sidewalk chalk, etc.

Vacation Bible School
Every summer we host a Vacation Bible School at the AMA Teen Center. We typically have 100 local kids and youth ages 1-16 come out for the 4-day event. We have local volunteers come from the La Peña church and could always use more helping hands. Specific needs are daily craft kits, a daily snack, Bibles, and a sponsor for the closing meal on the last day of the VBS. Quantities for all needed items is 400 of each (100 kids x 4 days); please let us know if you can partner with us for this event.