The Center for Science Technology and Leadership Development, a non-profit organization (EIN 45-2813878) is pleased to present Bethel Youth Activity Center (BYAC).  This is a Remote Learning Center made possible by a collaboration with the Pitt County Alcohol Board, September 2020.  Through this collaboration, we were able to transform a closed ABC Store into Bethel Youth Activity Center.  The ABC Board is being honored for their visionary support of youth in Pitt County and a plaque is permanently placed in the building recognizing their contribution and support.  As a remote learning center (supported by a grant from NC Alliance of YMCA), students can be at the Center beginning 8am-3pm for assistance with regular public-school assignments and 3pm-5pm for tutoring and special activities.  The Center is equipped with technology through a generous donation of computers, tables and chairs by Suddenlink.  To that end, our classroom has been named “Suddenlink Technology Classroom”.  There is high-speed internet service connected to 30 computers available for use by students and the community.  Special thanks go to our local supporters: The Eddie and Jo Allison Smith Family Foundation, Vidant Hospital Foundation, United Way, Smith Reynolds Foundation, Barnhill Family Foundation, NC Community Foundation – as ongoing supporters of our education initiatives.

The Bethel Youth Activity Center is opened to all youth in the Pitt County School System, especially youth in Bethel and surrounding communities.  Due to COVID-19, everyone must wear Masks and maintain a safe Social Distance.  Masks and hand sanitizers are generously available along with sneeze protectors.  Equally important to note is that only 20-25 youth will be allowed in the classroom at any given time.  A separate room dedicated for counseling and mentoring is prepared to assist youth to work through their personal, school and community issues.

A host of activities will be offered beyond regular schoolwork and tutoring:  Special STEM activities and programs, Parent homeschooling seminars, A Medical Academy, Drone and Summer Camps are strong entities of BYAC. 

All students must register to participate in activities at BYAC and undergo standard COVID-19 screening. 

The staff are seasoned professionals who care deeply about student success.   Our office and operations staff consist of three veterans, community residents, experienced administrative staff and administrator.  STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programs/courses are guided by STEM professionals from Pitt County Schools, Pitt Community College and East Carolina University.  We further consult with Brody School of Medicine, ECU Dental School and Vidant Medical Center.  Effective January 2021 a special initiative that will focus on reading will be staffed by a group called “BLOOM BOX” from ECU.  This group will offer one-on-one reading tutoring and group reading sessions.  We also collaborate with other non-profits such as Michael’s Angels Girls Club in Edgecombe County and STEM East in Beaufort County – to share resources that serve to strengthen all our programs and services. 

Since opening, we have registered over 40 youth.  However, the impact on the number of youth who come to the Center is in excess of 85.   Based on expressed interest, we anticipate 2021 enrollment will exceed our capacity to serve Bethel and surrounding communities. To that end, we have started discussing how to expand our physical space. 

CSTLD’s funding comes from grants, gifts and special initiatives/projects.  There is no cost to families or youth for our programs/services. 

Please call The Bethel Youth Activity Center at 1-252-818-0020 or visit our location at 7449 N. Main St., Bethel, NC.

Dr. Garrie W. Moore, CEO/ Executive Director