The Simple Room
Christian Youth Center
Christ-centered development for K–12 students to Learn, Lead, and Love.
“We just needed a simple room where students could gather.” - Dr. Jim Reinhard, Founder
Our Mission
At The Simple Room, we exist to empower young people to become disciples of Jesus Christ through holistic development—spiritually, mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically.
We seek to nurture strong relationships with God, self, and others to create thriving leaders for our community.
Serving Bond County’s Youth
We serve K–12th grade students in Bond County, Illinois. From after-school tutoring to summer programs, we’re committed to meeting each student where they are—helping them grow in character, faith, and leadership.
Learning the art of clay with Isaac at Mudslide where creativity knows no limits!
Rooted & Rising
Character Education at The Simple Room
Rooted & Rising is the character formation framework of The Simple Room. It reflects our commitment to grounding students in faith, identity, and meaningful relationships while helping them rise into leadership, responsibility, and confident Christian living. We believe growth begins with belonging. When young people are known, valued, and encouraged, they develop the strength to grow in character and conviction.
At The Simple Room, we are on mission to empower youth to be disciples of Jesus Christ through holistic development. Rooted & Rising integrates spiritual growth, mentorship, leadership opportunities, and personal responsibility into daily life. Students participate in devotional discussions, enrichment activities, mentoring relationships, and restorative conversations that shape both heart and habits. Character is not a lesson we teach once a week—it is cultivated daily through consistent relationships and shared expectations.
Our vision is to see students who learn, lead, and love in their community. Through Rooted & Rising, older students are encouraged to model maturity and mentor younger peers. Friendships become the foundation for faith conversations. Personal growth is strengthened through accountability, perseverance, and encouragement. We are not simply offering a program—we are building a Christ-centered community where young people grow together.
Rooted & Rising honors our heritage as a teen-centered ministry while serving students from kindergarten through high school. It is sustained not by events or slogans, but by faithful investment in relationships. Here, students are rooted in truth and rising with purpose.
Our Programs
We offer year-round opportunities for students to learn, connect, and grow.
After-School Tutoring & Activities
Our largest program gives students a safe, welcoming place to gather after school every weekday. They receive tutoring help, healthy snacks, recreation, and enriching activities that support academic growth, social connection, and personal development in a positive, structured environment.
From first strings to future songs—mentorship in motion.
Project 24 Summer Program
24 days of summer learning offer students a safe, engaging environment for six weeks each year. Students strengthen reading skills and enjoy hands-on learning in math, science, art, music, Bible studies, plus trips that enrich social connection and personal development.
A Gentle Moment at Marcoot’s Jersey Creamery
Special Events & Trips
Special events and trips broaden students’ horizons through field trips, service projects, and community experiences. Students explore new places, serve others, build social connection, and gain practical knowledge that supports personal growth, learning, and positive development in meaningful ways.
A buzzing good time at Big T’s Honeybee Farm—watching the bees hard at work!
Leadership Development
We offer older students meaningful ways to lead with compassion and purpose. They support younger peers, assist in activities, demonstrate positive behavior, and develop responsibility, communication, and service skills that promote personal growth and build a strong, caring community.
Solving problems together, growing together.
Get Involved
You can make a difference in the life of a local student.
Volunteer your time, make a donation, or partner with us to support the next generation of leaders.
“Context Clues” reading skills game made easy with a little help (and a lot of heart) from Naj, one our Greenville Univeristy leaders.
Testimonials / Impact
“My kids love coming here every day. They’ve grown so much.” – Local Parent
“The Simple Room helped me become the person I am today.” – Former Student
Support Our Mission
Your generosity helps us serve local youth with Christ-centered programs that transform lives.
The Simple Room is a registered 501(c)(3), non-profit, youth development center serving K-12th grade students in Bond County, IL.
Established 1983.