The Bridge Teen Center

Blog Author

Priscilla Steinmetz

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Priscilla had a passion for serving young people at a very early age. A graduate of Evangel University with a degree in communications and biblical studies, Priscilla's experience goes far beyond the church walls. As a Concept Development Manager, she helped launch a multi-million dollar family center in the St. Louis area; and as a Development Director and Event Director, she raised millions of dollars for two national organizations and one community-based organization.

As a full-time youth worker, Priscilla has served families in the Tinley Park/Orland Park area for almost a decade. Most recently, Priscilla served as Youth Minister of a large Tinley Park church, taking a youth group of less than 12 and developing it into a multi-tiered youth program with an active roster of 400 students. During that time, Priscilla also played an integral role in planning the “Livin’ It” skateboard/BMX ministry event hosted by Stephen Baldwin and The Luis Palau Association. Over 5,000 people attended that event, making it the largest in the nation.

In May 2009, Priscilla was hired by the Board of Directors as the first Executive Director of The Bridge Teen Center. Priscilla and her husband, Rob, founded The Bridge Teen Center after seeing a growing need in the suburbs for a permanent place where teenagers (who are not necessarily connected to a church) can be supported, encouraged, and loved. Their commitment to making the dream a reality has resulted in a larger group of community leaders who are working together to make a difference in the lives of teens and families in the Chicago Southland area.

In addition to ministering to teens and families outside the church walls, Priscilla continues to speak in churches of all denominations by sharing her story and addressing a wide variety of subjects. She was also the only female contributor to a book titled If I Knew Then What I Know Now, (a guide for those new to youth ministry) published by Youth Specialties and Zondervan. Priscilla currently serves as the Chicago Southland Coordinator for the National Network of Youth Ministries, and has served as a panelist and presenter at national youth worker conferences and events.

Priscilla has a great mid-range shot on the basketball court, loves to garden and cook, and is Martha Stewart’s biggest fan.