Welcome to Austin17House: A Legacy of Hope

Established in January 2017, Austin17House was born after the tragic loss that ignited a powerful mission. After the passing of Austin, a vibrant 17-year-old, in a drug-related car accident, his father, Mark, was touched by the outpouring of love and support at Austin's wake. Friends and peers shared how Austin had positively impacted their lives, and in that moment, Mark realized the need for a safe haven for youth in the community.

With funds raised through a GoFundMe campaign, Mark set forth to create a community center for Austin's friends and peers—a place where they could gather, grow, and heal. Eight years later, Austin17House stands as a beacon of hope, operating four days a week and providing a purposeful after-school program that empowers youth to be themselves and explore their potential.

At Austin17House, we offer a safe, quiet, and supportive environment where young people can try new things, make friends, and develop essential life skills. Our extensive range of activities includes hands-on workshops in woodworking, metalworking, science, technology, cooking, hospitality, apiary, and gardening. Through our training academy, we equip youth with the skills and tools necessary to confidently enter the workforce and thrive in their future endeavors.

In addition to practical skills training, we believe in the power of creative expression. Our center hosts various workshops in music, theatre, sewing, crafts, and visual arts, allowing youth to build upon their existing talents while dreaming big about their futures.

The Austin17House is more than just a community center; it is a way of life. We are committed to empowering youth and their families, providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate life's challenges.

Join us in honoring Austin's legacy and transforming lives, one young person at a time.

A17H Block Party

Team Members