In 1997, the Air Chapel Community Learning Center (ACLC) began in response to a resolution by Texas legislature encouraging faith-based restorative programs in juvenile justice youth facilities. “Crime is Christianity's ancient enemy.” The Mission was started by a Marine Corps combat veteran and now an ordained chaplain. A parent's memorial for a deceased law enforcement officer has grown. Others can also serve in this way. Three other volunteer families have also lost sons and have a real passion for rescuing youth from a life of crime.
Air Chapel Community Learning Center is an interdenominational faith-based program whose civic mission is to link individuals, juvenile justice systems, organizations and churches in order to restore alienated youth to productive relationship with their families, communities, and God. The heart of that mission is to oppose crime in our communities by changing the attitudes, beliefs, and values of those most likely to conduct criminal activity.
The air Chapel is located at the North Texas Regional Airport (formerly Grayson County / Perrin Field) adjacent to the Grayson County Juvenile Detention Center in Denison, TX which serves 10-17 year old delinquent boys. The building was funded by concerned citizens and churches, and in 1998, the center and its operations came under the umbrella of Community Services Network, Inc., a 501 (C) (3) non-profit corporation, and all donations are tax deductible.
All funding for the Air Chapel is provided by private donations, churches, and community organizations. All workers are volunteers with no paid staff at all.