Frequently Asked Questions about the Portal:
1. What do kids learn at Portal 2:20?
While we strive to help instill positive values such as personal responsibility, respect for others, themselves and property. Our main focus is for every teen to know and believe that they are Loved, Worthy, Valuable and Enough.
2. Is there a cost to attend?
While there is no charge for teens to attend the Portal, there may be costs for purchases made from the Snack Bar, or for prizes & merch. Portal is a non-profit teen ministry. Donations are most appreciated as there is still a cost to running and maintaining the center.
3. Is there adult supervision and security?
Absolutely. We are always fully staffed when opened with trained volunteers who undergo strict screening including background checks. Our volunteers don't just supervise, we interact with every teen. We feel this helps deter negative behaviors while promoting a positive experience at Portal.
4. What events does Portal have to offer?
While we are currently limited on event possibilities while in "Pocket Mode", we have in the past hosted many events and activities including karaoke, gaming tournaments, parties, movie nights, laser tag and our Blackout! Annual Halloween event & fundraiser. Our goal is to continue and expand upon these ideas once our new facility is operational.
5. What is the ultimate goal of the Portal 2:20 Teen Center?
The goal of the Portal 2:20 Teen Center is to be able to eliminate teen substance abuse and suicide in our community. We believe it is our mission to share the love of Jesus Christ to every student that walks through our doors through our words and our actions so that they may come to know that they are Loved, Worthy, Valuable and Enough.
6. Do you have any rules that teens must follow?
Yes. Rules are prominently displayed throughout our center as well as given a copy within the student's registration packet. We expect every teen to understand and follow our facility rules if they wish to attend activities at our center. Failure to comply could result in student(s) being asked to leave. A complete list of our rules and guidelines can be found HERE.
7. Where is the Center located?
The Portal is temporarily located inside of Church on the Horizon at 634 North Washington St. in Van Wert, Ohio. We are currently raising funds to build a new facility near downtown Van Wert.
8. How many kids attend the Portal?
We currently have roughly 100 teens registered with the Portal. On any given night our center has an average 15 students attend on a regular non-event night. Event nights, such as our Glow in the Dark Party or Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Dinner can average as many as 30 students!
9. What does the “2:20” mean in Portal 2:20?
The 2:20 is a reference to the Bible verse in Galatians 2:20 which says “I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loves me and gave himself for me.” It references the change that happens in us when we choose to follow Jesus.
10. We have no interest in church, but we are interested in the center, are you churchy?
While our organization is founded on Biblical principles, we do not require or push any student to believe as we do. Our staff shares the love of Jesus through actions more than words, but also wont shy away from speaking the Truth in love. We offer a safe, judgement-free space that is welcoming, warm and inviting to all. Our end of the night devotionals are completely optional. Students do not have to participate unless they want to.
11. Does the Portal offer tutoring or homework assistance?
We do not offer trained tutoring, however our volunteers may be willing to help students with homework questions on occasion. We also offer incentives for good grades through our “Portal Credits” system.
12. My child struggles to fit in at school, what is your approach to prevent bullying?
We incorporate many strategies to help combat bullying while helping every student feel welcomed and accepted. Strategies such as constant communication and engaging students in activities or conversation, through our facility guidelines and rules, and offering positive outlets through various activities. We also talk with teens to help work out problems and resolve strife. If you child has any issues with another student or bullying while at the center, please be sure to to communicate with a volunteer or director right away so that way we can work to help resolve any issues and maintain boundaries. A copy of our Anti-Bullying Policy can be found HERE.
13. My child is hyperactive, do you have physically interactive activities?
Our facility is set up for low impact activities and small scale events. We do not currently offer any sport related or high impact activities at the center.
14. My teen may not be able to attend Portal all the time, is this okay?
Absolutely! Portal 2:20 exists as an entertainment drop-in style center, not as a scheduled club or youth group. Teens are welcome to attend whenever they wish and are under no obligation to participate for any length of time.
⭐️ Portal 2:20 Teen Center is a place for games, amusement and for teens to hang out. It’s also a place parents can use as a reward for good behavior, or keep them home as a form of punishment for poor grades. We exist in an effort to be a positive influence for both teens and the rest of the community.
While our facility may not be for everyone, we do our best to make everyone who spends time with us feel Loved, Worthy, Valuable and Enough.
While we strive to help instill positive values such as personal responsibility, respect for others, themselves and property. Our main focus is for every teen to know and believe that they are Loved, Worthy, Valuable and Enough.
2. Is there a cost to attend?
While there is no charge for teens to attend the Portal, there may be costs for purchases made from the Snack Bar, or for prizes & merch. Portal is a non-profit teen ministry. Donations are most appreciated as there is still a cost to running and maintaining the center.
3. Is there adult supervision and security?
Absolutely. We are always fully staffed when opened with trained volunteers who undergo strict screening including background checks. Our volunteers don't just supervise, we interact with every teen. We feel this helps deter negative behaviors while promoting a positive experience at Portal.
4. What events does Portal have to offer?
While we are currently limited on event possibilities while in "Pocket Mode", we have in the past hosted many events and activities including karaoke, gaming tournaments, parties, movie nights, laser tag and our Blackout! Annual Halloween event & fundraiser. Our goal is to continue and expand upon these ideas once our new facility is operational.
5. What is the ultimate goal of the Portal 2:20 Teen Center?
The goal of the Portal 2:20 Teen Center is to be able to eliminate teen substance abuse and suicide in our community. We believe it is our mission to share the love of Jesus Christ to every student that walks through our doors through our words and our actions so that they may come to know that they are Loved, Worthy, Valuable and Enough.
6. Do you have any rules that teens must follow?
Yes. Rules are prominently displayed throughout our center as well as given a copy within the student's registration packet. We expect every teen to understand and follow our facility rules if they wish to attend activities at our center. Failure to comply could result in student(s) being asked to leave. A complete list of our rules and guidelines can be found HERE.
7. Where is the Center located?
The Portal is temporarily located inside of Church on the Horizon at 634 North Washington St. in Van Wert, Ohio. We are currently raising funds to build a new facility near downtown Van Wert.
8. How many kids attend the Portal?
We currently have roughly 100 teens registered with the Portal. On any given night our center has an average 15 students attend on a regular non-event night. Event nights, such as our Glow in the Dark Party or Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Dinner can average as many as 30 students!
9. What does the “2:20” mean in Portal 2:20?
The 2:20 is a reference to the Bible verse in Galatians 2:20 which says “I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loves me and gave himself for me.” It references the change that happens in us when we choose to follow Jesus.
10. We have no interest in church, but we are interested in the center, are you churchy?
While our organization is founded on Biblical principles, we do not require or push any student to believe as we do. Our staff shares the love of Jesus through actions more than words, but also wont shy away from speaking the Truth in love. We offer a safe, judgement-free space that is welcoming, warm and inviting to all. Our end of the night devotionals are completely optional. Students do not have to participate unless they want to.
11. Does the Portal offer tutoring or homework assistance?
We do not offer trained tutoring, however our volunteers may be willing to help students with homework questions on occasion. We also offer incentives for good grades through our “Portal Credits” system.
12. My child struggles to fit in at school, what is your approach to prevent bullying?
We incorporate many strategies to help combat bullying while helping every student feel welcomed and accepted. Strategies such as constant communication and engaging students in activities or conversation, through our facility guidelines and rules, and offering positive outlets through various activities. We also talk with teens to help work out problems and resolve strife. If you child has any issues with another student or bullying while at the center, please be sure to to communicate with a volunteer or director right away so that way we can work to help resolve any issues and maintain boundaries. A copy of our Anti-Bullying Policy can be found HERE.
13. My child is hyperactive, do you have physically interactive activities?
Our facility is set up for low impact activities and small scale events. We do not currently offer any sport related or high impact activities at the center.
14. My teen may not be able to attend Portal all the time, is this okay?
Absolutely! Portal 2:20 exists as an entertainment drop-in style center, not as a scheduled club or youth group. Teens are welcome to attend whenever they wish and are under no obligation to participate for any length of time.
⭐️ Portal 2:20 Teen Center is a place for games, amusement and for teens to hang out. It’s also a place parents can use as a reward for good behavior, or keep them home as a form of punishment for poor grades. We exist in an effort to be a positive influence for both teens and the rest of the community.
While our facility may not be for everyone, we do our best to make everyone who spends time with us feel Loved, Worthy, Valuable and Enough.
Questions about donations and Donors
Why should I set up a monthly donation to the Portal 2:20 Teen Center?
We have found that setting up a monthly giving schedule works better with household budgets. It less to have to think about and you know that your hard earned dollars aren’t going to waste. It’s also easier for us as an organization to know in advance whether our monthly needs are being met. We want to focus more on the mission than on the money. Isn’t it worth sacrificing at least one fast food meal a month to help make a lasting difference for our community?
I can’t give much, is it even worth it?
If you are willing to give, rest assured that ANY amount, whether its $5 or $100 means something to these kids. We have witnessed the teens themselves giving what little pocket change they had as a donation because they desperately want this place to happen! We are grateful for a giving heart, no matter the amount!
Is the Portal funded by a parent organization or a home church?
No. While we wish to partner with area churches and organizations, we are not run by a church, denomination, or any parent organization. The Portal is a stand-alone non-profit organization that is managed by its own board of directors and funded completely by the generosity of people and businesses in our community. We greatly appreciate those who choose to partner with us and understand our mission and purpose in this community.
Does the Portal receive State funding or Grants?
The Portal does NOT receive State funding. We do look for and apply for appropriate grants when the opportunity arises.
⭐️ Whatever the amount you choose to give, know that every bit is greatly appreciated and goes directly to the mission and vision set in front of us. We volunteer our own time, effort and resources to help make a difference in this community. Please consider playing a vital role in changing the hearts and minds of the youth in our community, before it's too late! Donate now!
