About – Gateway Youth Programs

Gateway was established in Darke County under the umbrella of Council on Rural Services to support youth in 1988 under a Runaway Homeless Youth Grant.

The Gateway Youth Program specializes in positive youth development and working with youth aged 7-17 in Darke County. The program focuses on building the positive attributes young people need in order to be successful in life. There is an emphasis on the supports and services necessary to help youth transition through various stages of their developmental journey.

Our youth advocates support and help youth learn to navigate in their “early life journey” and learn ways to handle transitions and struggles. The youth involved in Gateway may be in conflict, at-risk, or just in need of support to help them succeed in school and in life. Gateway’s goal is to help youth gain the skills necessary to deal with life’s many challenges.

About – ACES

Achievement Center for Educational Success (ACES) was created by CORS in collaboration with Miami and Darke County Education Service Centers as an alternative education program for Miami and Darke County students in grade 9th through 12th. Coursework is provided in a classroom setting through independent study under the guidance of a certified teacher. 

Our Mission is to provide a structured, supportive and educational environment for students who are credit deficient, struggling in regular school settings or on the verge of dropping out. The program offers services to address social, emotional, behavioral and substance abuse needs while receiving academic credit towards their high school diploma. 

ACES believes that youth development will occur when there is connection, inspiration, and motivation through positive role models and interaction. Our model supports the social emotional needs of youth, provides trained staff to support the youth’s ability to build healthy relationships, and helps youth realize a higher sense of self and achievement.