ABOUT

Rocketown is a 12,000 square foot non-profit entertainment facility on Federal Hwy consisting of a music venue, cafe, recreation, and programming.  We provide a safe, alcohol and drug free environment for youth to enjoy concerts, classes, video games and much more. While many of the classes we offer are centered around middle school and high school students, the concerts are all-ages events.

Mission

Rocketown shares Christ’s love with youth through creative programs and mentoring relationships that are culturally relevant and eternally significant.

Vision

Through a central location, and unique programming, Rocketown creates a welcoming environment that is accessible for all teens and their families.

History

Singer/songwriter Michael W. Smith founded Rocketown in 1994 to give teens a positive alternative to the many negative pressures they face.  The first of its kind in the Southeast, Rocketown has grown into a regional outreach as well as a model for faith-based relational outreach across the country.

Rocketown Founder, Michael W Smith.  Rocketown Florida President Danny Kanell and former Operations Director Theresa Mazza.

Michael W. Smith shares his heart and vision for youth with Rocketown Florida volunteers, students, and Board of directors.

Hanging with Rocketown Florida Skate Team.

Sharing the vision.

Student Volunter Julie, meets her hero!!!

Encourages Rocketown Florida!

Preparing for concert in Florida.  Michael tells the audience about Rocketown Florida.

Rocketown’s board was inspired to grow the scope of programming and moved to a central location in downtown Nashville. Mark Ezell, co-founded the current facility which opened in 2003, and houses a coffee bar; photography, art and dance studios; stages for live entertainment; and Middle Tennessee’s only indoor skatepark. To date there have been more than 425,000 visits with an average of 1,350 teens from across Middle Tennessee participating in programs each week.

After six years of meaningful relationships with teens in its downtown Nashville location, we are honored to offer rocketown to South Florida youth through our community partnerships, volunteers, and dedicated staff.

How Rocketown Works

the A, B,C, Ds….

• Attraction – In the beginning, there is an attraction. Young people come to Rocketown for it’s great music venue, skatepark, coffee bar and programs.
• Building Relationships – once they are here, attendees find people who accept them as they are. Staff, volunteers and peers have created an inviting community.
• Connection – Participants find ways to connect through discussion groups, Bible studies, service projects and shared interests.
• Discovering Purpose – through creative programs in arts, music and extreme sports, participants discover new interests and develop their talents. They learn skills that help develop a sense of purpose. They find affirmation through one-on-one mentoring.