Fortress Youth Development Center

I have had an association with Fortress for many years. I have been a volunteer and have seen the dedication of the amazing staff. I have seen the teachers caring so kindly for the young children and babies. I can truthfully say that I wouldn’t hesitate to leave a child in their care. Fortress is changing lives now and for generations to come. It is a treasure in the Fort Worth community!

Fortress is more than a youth development center—it’s truly family. My wife and I had the privilege of working here for years, and our children also grew up surrounded by the love, support, and opportunities this place provides. Fortress has shaped not only our kids’ growth, but our own as parents and leaders. The staff pour into every child with genuine care, building confidence, character, and community. We are forever grateful for the way Fortress has walked alongside our family and countless others. It’s a place where kids thrive, families feel supported, and everyone belongs. Love Always K.A.K.O.E

Like any good teacher, the child care staff at Fortress go above and beyond to help "their" kids thrive. They love the Littles and you can see it in each and every interaction. I've been at their annual Trunk-or-Treats, been involved in summer teacher trainings, and work fundraising events each year. I'm always excited to be a part of something so focused on community and family like Fortress is.

Fortress is a safe place for children to learn and grow. They pour into the community and the families they serve through a wide array of resources. I have watched Fortress grow and change, faithfully aligning their work to the needs of the community they serve. Every community should be so lucky to have a Fortress!

This institution is truly a God send. In today’s society, trying to find a place for your children to feel safe can sometimes be a struggle, especially with the high cost of living. When my girls were young, my husband and I were approved to bring them to the Fortress for early morning childcare and education. They offered parenting courses, resources for struggling families, and a calm listening ear. Through one of their courses we learned how to better serve one of our children who is neurodivergent. It was truly eye opening. As many know with business, there will always be those who only see the negative in every situation. But with our family, we saw so many positives. During Covid the staff drove to our home and dropped off supplies for our children to still feel included. Like coloring supplies, coloring sheets, and pamphlets for the parents. They also dropped off meals for our girls during Covid, without even being asked. The parents of many of the children had various life battles, which was evident. But that’s how the world is. I think that’s what makes the Fortress so beautiful, they put the children first, and slowly you will see that the children relax, and the parents demeanors as well. The Fortress is located off the highway, in a lovely building filled with artwork, certificates, emergency supply clothes and food for families, and more. When winter came around they provided my girls with winter coats, brand new, for free. They hosted a Christmas event where the staff gave out gifts they purchased, and even handmade pillows. My youngest child still sleeps with hers on her bed, it has dinosaurs on it. So before you rush to read all of the negative reviews by former workers, disgruntled parents, or confused spectators, just know that all of the staff are human. My kids still talk about how much they loved going there. Even 6 years after they left. I 100% love this place. My girls still talk about the kitty house next door, and how they would always wave at the kittens when we dropped them off. Their policies with pick up and drop offs made us feel safe as well.