Dynamic Youth Center

My cousin, who is more like a brother to me, has been to DYC more than once. While he is no longer there today, that is not because of any shortcoming on DYC’s part. This place is truly a diamond in the rough. DYC is one of the very few long-term treatment facilities available for youth, a rarity that in itself makes it invaluable. But beyond that, what makes DYC extraordinary is the people: kind, compassionate, dedicated individuals who consistently go above and beyond not only for its members but also for the families who walk alongside them in this difficult journey. From the Fallsburg residence to the Brooklyn program and beyond, DYC offers so much more than treatment. It provides dignity, holistic care, and the life skills, introspection, and tools needed to break free from addiction’s grip. It is a place that treats people as whole human beings, worthy of love, healing, and hope. Although my cousin is no longer a member due to his own circumstances and decisions, DYC has never left me behind. For over a year, I have been attending the family groups virtually every Wednesday, and in that time I have been heard, understood, guided, and supported. These groups have profoundly shifted my beliefs, my approach, and my ability to support not only my cousin but also myself as I navigate the long and painful road that addiction weaves into families. I especially want to recognize Jen and Scott, who lead our Wednesday meetings with such care, wisdom, and compassion. Their ability to hold space for every single person in the group - through laughter, tears, and honest conversation - has been life-changing. They embody the heart of what makes DYC so special. I have cried with this community, laughed with them, and learned from them. I have been humbled by the strength of other families and, in turn, found strength of my own. The gratitude I feel for DYC, the staff, the families, and the space they create together, cannot truly be captured by words. But I can say this: DYC has given me hope, perspective, and a community when I needed it most. For that, I am forever thankful.

Didn’t complete this program but been sober since around the time I left this program….. Place had its ups and downs but I’ll always be grateful for my experience and the people I met

I went to pick up my younger sister after 2 weeks of not being able to speak to her- they wouldn’t give her my letters… she finally got in touch and begged to leave. When I arrived no one greeting me nor wish my sister luck on her way. Rather shoved her belongings in her face, told her she couldn’t say goodbye to her peers and hurried back inside leaving us and all the other “patients” outside unsupervised. This is supposed to be a safe and supportive environment and I in 5 brief moments could feel it was anything but that. After much comforting she finally told me what she experienced in there. Days full of cleaning, bullying and no activities she was left at night to struggle through detox off cocaine and other drugs that didn’t require a clinic on her own, with no medical support available. No trained professional in sight. The “counseling” that she was told would be available was from past addicts with no psychological training nor empathy. They would yell n curse my girl out for simply sleeping in (while she’s in recovery!!) There needs to be more staff more therapy more therapeutic activities. Thank goodness the girl found a soccer ball and a friend. She wasn’t given food options just red meat which she doesn’t eat.. this place is disrespectful to humanity and help. Disgusting that we thought this place was help. disgusting that they (Dynamite Youth) thinks this is help.

Rest in Peace Jesse Campbell Rest in Peace Brian L Torture and Domination everyone Who Survived the Torture- House in Dynamite Youth center Life did not get better for 90% of us. We were Young Adults victims of Parents Abusive behavior , we didn't have a choice , born in Unproductive Unhealthy family were alcohol or drugs and violence is normally accepted. Because of Our own Addiction we was forced to Comply with all the Rule of this place. Because we did know how to take care of our self Dynamite Victimized me even more For any miss behavior , example - Lies they Make my follow brothers or sisters Wear the Sing on The Body , For Lying I was send to Clean scrub bathrooms for 9 days. I saw kids sweeping sun of the road. I saw members on the knees sweeping with toothbrush a Gym . The Victimized kids didn't know Better. I was forced to communicate with my own parents After they Sold me to American men to work for him for my Green card . Dynamite didn't help me. They send me back to Abusive Parents. I did know I could File Federal charges Against Dynamite and my Abusive Parents. To those who think Dynamite helps. No not Everyone survived after few years after the Program Many of us when back to Crazy Abusive places we came from and Most of the completions Still use drugs get arrested and list goes on and on. My friend Alex B miss you Bro ,John C etc. Rest in peace. 56th Wave completion

I spent 14 months there in 1979.80 they saved my life. I went from shooting dope in bklyn to a 100 acre farm like setting God bless Ed Kenny dose anyone remember him or the staff?

I Was there for at least 18 months or so. I Stayed at the Fallsberg facility then at their Brooklyn facility. Going to leave an honest review. There is a ton of work & cleaning daily, it can be a bit much. Punishments for breaking rules are cleaning even more & doing chores for staff. I had pretty long stretches of sobriety during my time there. It is very intense and can appear cultish especially at first. It is more intense than 28 day programs, much Stricter than Phoenix house. No cell phones until you transfer to Brooklyn. No going out on your own for over a year. Severe addicts may need this but can be overbearing. I watched this place work for some, not work for others. Rod C. was a great counselor. Food was good. The upstate director is a bit intense and authoritarian, but treats the parents well. I’d say this place is the last stop when all else has failed.

Miracles happen at DYC.

An oasis of human being-focused possibility in the desert of quick turn-around, short-stay corporate rehabs that statistically serve as a bandaid with little long-term success. Our son was at the end of his rope, hopeless and helpless to stop the cycle of self abuse. A day program he attended provided little and treated him along with clients twice and three times his age. He could neither hear nor meet my/our suggestions, support nor demands. After speaking with someone at Dynamite, I was sure that we’d found something unique. Our son spoke (without commitment) to a young member there, then to a counselor and together we were able to persuade him to consider it, which he did cautiously. Getting him there was not easy but once we did he was immersed in a culture of healing, accountability, and self reflection. Young people living and growing together. The changes are mind blowing and have altered the trajectory of his life and ours. We remain committed to his potential and have grown as a family. Can’t say enough about this unique program.