Christopher Emanuel is on a mission to shape the future of Aiken’s youth through his leadership at the Second Baptist Church Teen After School Center. This center provides a safe environment where individuality is celebrated and young people take control of their destinies despite the challenges they face. Serving students from third to twelfth grades, the program has made such an impact that former participants now return as volunteers, eager to give back to the community that once supported them.
Emanuel’s greatest motivation stems from his experience as a father. His fight to save his daughter from adoption trafficking opened his eyes to the critical need for strong male figures in the home. He saw young people in his own backyard struggling without guidance and took action. Emanuel became the director of the center 7 years ago, ensuring every child feels loved and supported. His philosophy is simple: “I’m not a role model; I am a real model.” Through transparency and emotional honesty, he gives young people the guidance they need to navigate their lives.
The center operates through three key vehicles: cultural awareness, alternative education and artistic expression, each tailored to individual students. Boys’ Council and Girls’ Circle promote positive behavior and emotional intelligence, teaching young people how to think rather than what to think. The gardening program introduces them to healthy eating habits while physical fitness activities build discipline and self-confidence. Entrepreneurship and workforce development programs help students recognize their strengths and plan for the future. Emanuel understands that every generation of youth requires a different approach, so he remains intentional and asks the right questions to help them find their paths.
Aiken’s youth face significant challenges, including violent crime, the absence of role models, teen pregnancy, mental health struggles and assault. Emanuel believes the key to engagement is being more interested and less interesting, truly listening to the students and creating a space where they feel seen and heard. At the center, they can decompress, have a meal and experience moments of peace, allowing them to dream beyond their circumstances. Emanuel emphasizes that once young people recognize their gifts and learn de-escalation skills, they can shift the paradigm in their households, breaking cycles of truancy, gang involvement and theft. Many are even deepening their faith and attending Fuse, the student ministry at NewSpring Church.
Students who were once underperforming and economically challenged are now thriving in elite spaces, excelling academically and embracing their potential. Emanuel encourages them to stay locked in, keep coming back and trust in God, knowing that perseverance leads to transformation. Emanuel believes through consistency, education and faith, these young people are building brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
The center’s impact, however, depends on financial support and a strong network of mentors. Emanuel invites community members to contribute by sharing their expertise through business mentorship or financial support. Those interested in supporting the center can email sbcteencenter@gmail.com.
Special thanks to The Teen After School Center sponsors and private donors:
Aiken Rotary Mentor Committee, Cold Creek Nursery, Leadership Aiken County, Second Baptist Church, Gifting Tree Foundation, GL Williams, NewSpring Church and Mrs. Diana Floyd for her unwavering support.