FOUNDER
MARK ANDERSON
Mark Anderson, a Fremont, New Hampshire resident from Belfast, Northern Ireland, had dreamed of opening a community center for years. His plan was set into motion when his 17-year-old son, Austin, died in a car crash on December 3, 2016.
Three months after the tragic loss, Austin17House became a reality organically and was funded by the help of 170 people on GoFundMe who raised $11,000.
"Community center born from grief" - Eagle Tribune 2017
Austin17House then earned its status as a non-profit organization in 2018 with the goal of creating a place where youth and adults - from anywhere - can strengthen their identity and develop leadership skills.
My vision was to create a place where youth and adults can be strengthened in their identity, become strong leaders and where they can build and find their dreams. And we've done this through community, building support systems and hope.
- Mark Anderson, 2018
OUR HISTORY
DECEMBER 2016
$11,000.00
Mark Anderson receives $11,000 from an online GoFundMe and begins plans to open up a community center with the funds.
JANUARY 2017
Est. Brentwood NH
Mark finds a local, vacant gymnasium in Brentwood NH and establishes Austin17House
APRIL 2017
Open House
Austin17House hosts its first Open House with OVER 200 community members in attendance!
MARCH 2018
Certified 501C3 Non Profit
Austin17House becomes a certified Non-Profit, 501c3, with the State of NH on March 8, 2018!
Austin17house is not a building;
it’s not a business;
it’s a way of life.
- Mark Anderson, 2021
IN THE NEWS
UNION LEADER
TEENS HAVE A SPECIAL HANG OUT THANKS TO A SPECIAL DAD
NEW HAMPSHIRE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION | NHCF
"The Austin17 House in Brentwood is a place where young people feel connected, and heard, and celebrated."
BY LOIS R. SHEA, SENIOR WRITER & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
JULY 30, 2019
IN THE NEWS
Austin17House, Inc. is a certified 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
**Your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.**
Through community support and fundraising efforts, we have been able to provide a safe place for youth and families to enjoy life, provide meals, and provide educational workshops surrounding suicide prevention, mental health, and substance prevention for free!