Youth Development, Inc. (YDI) opened as an outreach organization for teen dropouts in the Albuquerque metropolitan area. Today YDI offers a comprehensive program. YDI services include a crisis shelter, group homes, residential treatment centers, youth employment programs, alternative education programs, health education programs and school-to-work transition programs. In the midst of these services, Teatro Consejo provides an artistic forum for self-expression through theater-based activities, including creative writing, acting, dance, stage production, lighting, sound, costume design, puppetry and music. Youth and theater professionals meet at least three times a week for 3 hours during the school year and continue in the summer on an even more rigorous schedule. The core group of approximately 35 youth who comprise the troupe reach 25,000 people through performances at schools, community centers and community events. "The program is a source of energy for the community. And it has helped destigmatize these kids," says Executive Director Chris Baca. YDI's 300-seat theater serves as a community gathering space and a performance venue for continually sold-out performances.