I would like to create an after school lounge for kids.... and make
money or atleast break even... What do you think would draw kids to a
space like this??? What do you think they would pay for and what
wouldn't they pay for???

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Request for Question Clarification by mvguy-ga on 05 Dec 2002 17:28 PST

What age of kids?

I would think your best bet would be to try to operate as a nonprofit
community center and get government grants. I don't think the public
would look too kindly on a business that charges kids just to hang out
after school. You could operate a business like a pizza parlor and get
a lot of students to come.

I would have to disagree somewhat with mwalcoff-ga,
as this basicly would be the same as a specialized day care center or
camp, and those do operate quite successfully commercialy.  It would
however seem very hard to keep older kids attention, they just tend to
avoid most organized programs!

kimmichie, there are many ways to set up such a space.  I don't really
have all (or even any) answers for you, but here's an article to read:
"Cybercafe idea born of tragedy as teens fill need for safe hangout "
http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=cybercafe04m&date=20020504

If possible, ask the kids in your area what kind of place they'd like
to see in their community.  They probably have better suggestions than
us.   They may want a teen cyber cafe.  They may simply want a place
to chill and eat/buy simple food items.  They may want a place to play
pinball or even chess. Perhaps you can hold weekly tournaments (pool,
pinball, etc.) if there is enough interest in certain games.   Provide
workshops (such as How to DJ, etc.).

If you are into music at all, consider putting on shows.  Many places
lack good spaces for all-ages shows.  This is probably a little
different than what you were thinking of setting up, but here's some
info on an all-ages music/arts place that is geared towards young
people:
http://www.theveraproject.org/about.php

leep-ga