Serving youths for 25 years

In June 2025, The Escape Zone celebrated its 25th anniversary serving the children of Mount Vernon and Knox County.

The Escape Zone is a youth recreation center located in Mount Vernon. It was the dream and vision of two young men who saw a need in the community for a safe and friendly place for the children of Knox County to come and meet with their friends. In June 2000, The Escape Zone opened its doors at its original location on South Main Street. The center was open on weekend evenings and provided recreational activities including pool, ping pong, board games, and video games.

In 2017 the Escape Zone moved to its current location at 1 Mansfield Ave., the former National Guard Armory. With a full gymnasium on the second floor, the new facility provided the opportunities for additional activities and resources for children and teens.

After 25 years the Escape Zone is still going strong and looking for creative ways to expand its service to the county’s youth. Thanks to a grant from Food for the Hungry, a meal is provided on Friday nights to everyone who attends. The volunteers have offered guitar lessons, rocket making classes, arts and crafts, knitting and crocheting, dances and parties, among other fun activities.

The Escape Zone is open Friday nights from 7-9:30 p.m., to all children and teens in Knox County ages 10 to 18. It is staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers. The mission of the Escape Zone and its volunteer is to provide a safe, fun, friendly environment where the youth of Knox County can meet and participate in activities that will enrich their self-worth, quality of life, involvement in the community, moral values, and Christian convictions.