For 500 kids in Troy “Hope has an address”—and it’s The Troy Rec.
In this powerful episode, Executive Director Kelly Snyder shares what life is really like for local youth growing up in hard circumstances: parental incarceration, unstable homes, loneliness, and the painful reality of not having a trusted adult to talk to.

Kelly reveals how the Troy Rec Center becomes a safe haven for these kids—offering belonging, mentorship, honest conversations, and a consistent place to simply be themselves. You’ll hear real stories, eye-opening statistics, and a behind-the-scenes look at how mentors change the trajectory of a child’s life.

If you’ve ever wondered how to support at-risk youth in Miami County, this conversation will both break your heart and inspire you to take meaningful action.

✅ Want to explore becoming a mentor (no commitment required)?
Fill out the 2-minute interest form → https://tr.ee/mpmc_digital

🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/E_hFS5I5z3g

00:00 – The impact of incarceration on families
00:35 – Heartbreaking feedback from students
01:11 – Why the community center matters
01:54 – Listening and guiding with empathy
02:27 – How hope grows through mentorship
04:11 – Real stories from the Troy Rec
05:12 – What today’s youth are facing
06:06 – Building connection through respect
07:37 – The power of honest conversation
10:42 – Understanding kinship care
11:39 – Statistics behind the stories
13:51 – Why community support is essential
18:34 – Creating a welcoming environment
21:55 – Why consistent adults matter
22:59 – How to get involved at the Troy Rec
23:50 – What makes a great volunteer
25:41 – Creating a safe, inclusive space
31:29 – The role of unstructured time
35:31 – How to start volunteering
38:57 – Final thoughts & call to action

Episode Topics & Timeline