Non-Profit Spotlight: Visiting the Bridge Teen Center and How YOU Can Get Involved!

Since being crowned Mrs. Illinois International 5 months ago, I have attended over 42 appearances- not only in Illinois, but also in different states as well. Every single time I leave an event, no matter what the cause, I leave with a sense of wanting to be EVEN MORE involved than just "making an appearance." I am SO inspired and most of the time I spend the drive home in silence brainstorming what MORE can I do for the cause, for the organization and the people they serve. I truly believe I was blessed with this opportunity not to parade around the state with a beautiful crown, but because I am meant for something so much bigger. It is my absolute pleasure to bring attention to the MANY amazing non-profits changing the lives of thousands every single day with their selfless service.

This week I was invited to visit the Bridge Teen Center. They are a non-profit community center for students 7th - 12th grade. When I say this is one of the most beautiful facilities I have ever seen - I mean it! As an adult I would like to hang out there! They offer free programs and events (during after school hours and Friday nights) that are designed around the interests and needs of teens in the suburbs. To date they have served over 4,000+ different students from 127 communities.
From now until December they will be hosting 107 free events and workshops that address the mind/body, everyday life, community connections, educational support, and expressive arts.

One of the first messages you see when you access their web site is "The Bridge Teen Center is a place for teens to not just be, but to become." What makes them unique is they offer a holistic approach in that they provide a place for students to grow mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Positive energy fills the whole facility. I had the opportunity to meet with owner Priscilla Steinmetz and hear all about her dream that has come to fruition. Sometimes you leave a conversation full of energy and inspiration and this was one of those times for me. This visit was an absolute pleasure and I invite you to go see the center for yourself!

In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, the Bridge Teen Center is hosting a very special MONTH LONG donation drive in support of the many free programs they offer. The campaign is called "Drive Out Bullying." If you have some old stuff you want to pass on then this is the perfect way to give back for you!! It's simple: drop off your old apparel, glassware, home goods, furniture, electronics, tools, etc (on drop-off day) to help support the teens and families served by the Bridge Center! It doesn't get much easier than that!
I have included a link above for more information.

I look forward to working with the Bridge Teen Center in the future to continue to come up with innovative and creative ways to empower our youth, to feed their minds, and give them inspiration to be the amazing people they are meant to become in this world!

Thank you for a wonderful visit! I can't wait to come back!

Until next time...
"Be Kind. Make a Difference."
Mrs. Illinois International 2016

A look inside!