A Brief History of Non-Toxic

Non-Toxic Youth Alternatives, Inc was begun by Dave Flood in 1993.  Dave serves as the organization's founder and corporate president.  His desire to see positive alternatives directed toward "at risk" teens provided a framework for Non-Toxic's philosophy of ministry.  It was designed to be an outreach that evolves with the changing Youth Culture.  

Non-Toxic opened in April, 1993--it was an idea that was brewing in Dave's head for a long time. In fact, while working on his Master's degree he had to do a semester project; for 5 months he worked on it, re-wrote it I don't know how many times (we went through reams of paper!!) He was very excited about it and eventually when his professors saw it, they too were impressed and encouraged him to actually go out and do it---so that semester long project became Non-Toxic, of course.

Part of the motivation for his thinking was frustration with a lack of options for teens who appeared different, what with long hair, tattoos, piercings-whatever. So basically, he wanted some place safe, where they (the teens, young people) could "hang" and feel comfortable and get to know adults who genuinely care for them.

There are no rules of behavior posted on the walls of  Non-Toxic -such as "no swearing" "no-yelling" "no-tongue piercers"--no, we welcome all, and accept them where they're at. (there is a no smoking sign, but that is a matter of law here, not philosophy). This isn't church-this is a place for them, the teens. Here they will see positive role models in the staff, and can develop relationships through the various activities that Non-Toxic offers.

Non-Toxic was incorporated in September of 1994. There is a board of directors and constitution and bylaws.  It is a 501(C)3 not for profit charitable organization. Non-Toxic operates on the generosity of donations. There are monthly supporters (bless them!!!) and other givers, supporters and grantors.

From a 1,000 square feet room with one pool table and one foosball table we have grown to offer 5,000 square feet of recreational games, full service restaurant, outdoor adventure retreats, concert hall, tournament venue, Bear Claw Lodge Retreat Adventure Camp and more.