WINK helps new youth get connected prior to their arrival to Minot AFB. It allows the youth familiarity for a variety of social, cultural and academic events prior to the arrival and then aid them in the acclimation process. We feel the welcome is especially important. The staff learn the name of the child and don’t use nicknames or terms of affection. As a wise ole’ gal used to say, “It’s not the place that makes it happen, it is the people you meet and the things you do.”
We have thirteen computers that are all internet ready. Students need a parent signed permission slip to utilize the internet. The Technology Center offers:
T³ (Teen Tech Team) - where Club members assist the staff in the Technology Center whether it may be to sign-in and out members, assist in teaching classes, and enhance their own computer skills.
NetSmartz - a comprehensive program that teaches members Internet safety skills through engaging multimedia activities.
Digital Arts Suite – offers members an unprecedented opportunity to become not just consumers of art and high-tech information but, producers of their own content. Digital Arts leads members through the process of Web design, graphic design, digital photography and photo manipulation, and electronic manipulation.
Teen Adventure provides adventure-based, recreation activities and experiences for teens. These experiences will give participants the opportunity to learn about equipment selections and care, safety and risk management, outdoor skills, and an appreciation for our natural resources. Participants are given a budget then they plan it and do it!
A teen version of an Easter Egg hunt is held at dusk is Gym 1. There are thousands of Easter eggs cleverly hidden with unique markings that determine the worth of the egg. Some eggs are cash prizes, other are free movie passes, free pizzas, video games, etc. Teens search through shredded paper and decorated boxes (some as tall and wide as 8 feet). The gym is dark and they supply their own flashlight and plastic bag for all the eggs they recover. There is a total of $500 in cash hidden. Eggs are collected and participant names placed on bags while the teens help clean up the paper and boxes. Once the gym is free from debris, cash and prizes are awarded.
The Congressional Award Program offers young people the opportunity to set personal goals and achieve them in four program areas: volunteer public service, personal development, physical fitness and expedition or exploration activities.
There are six levels of Awards-Bronze, Silver and Gold Certificates and Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals. Each level is cumulative- this means time spent on one award is carried with you to the next level. When you reach the Bronze and Silver Medal that is awarded at the sate capital of the state which you currently reside. The Gold Medal is awarded at the US Capital in Washington DC.
The Congressional Award is a fun and interesting way to get more involved in something you already enjoy. You move at your own pace-on your own or with friends, ages 14 to 24. Youth Programs at Minot AFB pays the $10 registration fee when you turn in your tentative goals for Bronze and Silver Certificates. You can register online or print off from and return to Minot AFB Youth Programs. If you register online, please print the and return to MAFB YP.
America has a long and proud tradition of volunteer service. Now more than ever, volunteers are renewing their commitment to helping others and making new connections that bring us closer together as families, as neighbors, as communities, and as a Nation. The President's Council on Service and Civic Participation created the President's Volunteer Service Award program as a way to thank and honor Americans who, by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service. Recognizing and honoring volunteers sets a standard for service to others. It encourages a sustained commitment to civic participation and inspires others to make volunteering a central part of their lives. The President's Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals, families, and groups that have achieved a certain standard – measured by the number of hours served over a 12-month period or cumulative hours earned over the course of a lifetime. To date, the President's Council has bestowed more than 400,000 awards to the Nation's deserving volunteers.
To register you will need to go to the above website and the link “Track Your Hours” and create your log-in in order to create your record of service. Minot AFB Youth Programs is your certifying agency.
The Air Force Youth and Teen Health & Fitness Program for Ages 6-18.
This year FitFactor will focus on Family Fitness Fun and offer special promotions for the whole family! Healthy habits can last a lifetime - so start early!
Want to Join FitFactor?
Visit the Youth Center to get enrolled and join in the FitFactor fun! Parents and Youth Programs staff can now register and log points with their children.
The Youth Employment Skills (YES) Program is an on-base volunteer program for high school students and is being offered at selected Air Force bases. This program, underwritten by the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), is a joint effort between AFAS and Air Force Services to offer high school students an opportunity to learn valuable work skills, "bank" dollar credits toward their post-secondary education, and have a positive impact on their base community. Volunteer positions should be related to possible career interests following completion of high school/college.