An abandoned building in Paterson is now a sanctuary for teens in need.

The Buckley Park Community Center sat vacant for almost a year.

Now, it houses the city’s Jump Start program, a non-profit which focuses on gang prevention, character development, and leadership training.

Jamie Bland, Jump Start Executive Direction, says, “We're looking to have young adults understand a life outside of the urban areas. So we take them on various trips, just bringing awareness to them."

Funding for Jump Start comes from donations and grants.