Feb 4, 2026

From Historic Roots to Modern Mission

The Youth Development Center has found its new home in the heart of Winchester, and Executive Director Sarah Fishel couldn't be more excited about what this means for the community. Speaking with host Janet Michael on The Valley Today, Sarah traced the organization's journey from its 1990 founding to its March 2025 relocation to 302 South Loudoun Street, right off the walking mall.

The YDC's story began with a simple yet powerful vision: community leaders and business people wanted to create a space where children could grow, learn, and experience opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have. Tom and Sheila Baker donated their home to launch the initiative, and the organization quickly became a Winchester institution. By January 1996, the YDC was hosting its first high school dance—a tradition many locals still remember fondly.

A Building with History, A Vision for the Future

The new downtown location brings its own rich history to the table. Previously home to YHB accounting firm, a downtown athletic club, and even a funeral home, the building features remnants of its past, including two racquetball courts that delighted visitors during the recent Preservation of Historic Winchester holiday house tour. Sarah notes that this historical connection helps parents feel more comfortable bringing their children to explore what the YDC offers today.

Moreover, the location itself proves ideal for accessibility. Families can walk to the center, catch the bus, or use the spacious parking lot for drop-offs. This strategic positioning in downtown Winchester removes transportation barriers that might otherwise prevent children from participating in programs.

Addressing Today's Challenges

Sarah identifies a critical shift in the challenges facing today's youth compared to previous generations. While Janet recalls her own childhood spent "riding the strip" with nowhere to go, today's children face a different problem: they're glued to their screens. Furthermore, Sarah points out that many children, particularly "COVID babies," missed crucial developmental windows for learning basic social skills like making eye contact, smiling at strangers, and engaging in face-to-face conversation.

The YDC aims to fill this gap by creating an environment where children can practice these essential life skills. Sarah emphasizes that the center wants to be "a place where kids can come in, learn a little bit, but have some fun and just create the relationships that maybe were easier for all of us, pre-COVID or pre-iPhone."

Programs That Make a Difference

Read Start: Building Confidence Through Literacy

The YDC's Read Start program tackles one of Winchester's most pressing educational challenges: children reading significantly below grade level. Led by Shenandoah University student Rowan Lippy, the program goes beyond traditional reading instruction by incorporating movement and energy to keep kids engaged.

Sarah emphasizes the connection between reading ability and confidence, noting she can't imagine sitting in a classroom unable to read alongside peers. The program costs $10 per class, though scholarships ensure no child is turned away due to financial constraints. 

Saturday Art Classes: Creativity Without Judgment

Every Saturday, program coordinator Lindsay Browning leads free art classes that teach children more than just painting techniques. The sessions encourage kids to embrace their feelings, follow directions while making them their own, and most importantly, create without fear of judgment.

Janet highlights how art education teaches children not to judge others—a crucial skill in today's divided world. Sarah shares a touching story about a young student who drew her a stick figure tutorial after she joked about her own artistic limitations, demonstrating how the program fosters problem-solving and kindness.

Financial Literacy: Real Money in a Digital World

Starting March 4th, United Bank will teach "The Money Playbook," a financial literacy course that addresses a skill often overlooked in traditional education. Pete Warren and his team from United Bank, named the YDC as their premier community partner, will incorporate games and interactive elements to make financial concepts accessible to young minds.

Both Sarah and Janet acknowledge the challenge of teaching financial responsibility in an era of Apple Pay and Venmo, where money doesn't feel tangible. The course aims to help children understand that digital transactions represent real money leaving their accounts—a lesson that will serve them throughout their lives.

Midday at the YDC: Homeschool and Beyond

Launched on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 AM to 1 PM, this program welcomes homeschool families and anyone else who wants to use the YDC's resources during the day. For just $5 (free the first Tuesday of each month), children can access game rooms, art supplies, reading rooms, and even an eSports room.

When Women Lead: Amplifying Voices

In March, Sarah will launch a speaker series close to her heart: When Women Lead. Every Wednesday from 6 to 7 PM, panels of accomplished Winchester women will discuss different aspects of female leadership.

The series kicks off March 4th with "The Path to the Table," featuring Lauren Clouse, Blair Jewell, Adrienne Patrick, and Karis Frey. Subsequent weeks explore "Leadership in Motion" (March 11th), "Building What Lasts" (March 18th), and "Shaping What's Next" (March 25th). Each panel brings together women from diverse professional backgrounds—teachers, healthcare leaders, city officials, and business executives.

While geared toward women, Sarah stresses that men are equally welcome. In fact, she hopes to see mothers bringing their teenage sons, recognizing that change happens when everyone participates in these conversations.

The Power of Partnership

Throughout the conversation, Sarah repeatedly returns to one theme: Winchester's remarkable spirit of collaboration. United Bank doesn't just donate money—they send staff to teach financial literacy. Shenandoah University doesn't just support from afar—they send students and professors to lead programs. Local businesses and civic groups consistently step forward with resources and expertise.

Sarah admits she rarely needs to ask for help because community members proactively reach out, asking how they can contribute. This culture of giving back, which Sarah learned from her mother during 36 years at Valley Health, continues to drive the YDC's success.

Looking Ahead

As the YDC approaches its one-year anniversary in the new location, Sarah's goals remain ambitious yet grounded. The organization plans to revamp its afterschool program, bring back the mentorship initiative, and reimagine Summerfest and Winterfest to meet kids where they are today—not ten steps ahead or behind.

Sarah's philosophy centers on trial and error: "Why not try something? If it doesn't work, then we know. We'll move on to the next thing." This willingness to experiment, combined with deep listening to parents, educators, and community stakeholders, positions the YDC to remain relevant and responsive.

A Community Investment

Ultimately, Sarah views the YDC as more than a youth center—it's an investment in Winchester's future. "Winchester only stays the great place that we all love if we bolster the younger generation," she explains. By providing spaces where children can discover their passions, build confidence, and develop essential life skills, the YDC ensures that the next generation will continue making Winchester a community worth celebrating.

For those interested in learning more or getting involved, visit myydc.org or follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram. Whether you're a parent looking for programs, a professional willing to share expertise, or simply someone who believes in investing in youth, the YDC welcomes you to be part of Winchester's ongoing story.