We are so thrilled for the return of Empowering Teens Month this October, an initiative that celebrates the impact of afterschool programs and events like those at The Bridge. These programs give local teens the opportunity to try new things, meet new people, and discover their interests. It is an honor to walk alongside students and see how these experiences help shape their lives.

Michael, a 12th grade student, regularly participates in afterschool programs and Friday night events and serves as a student ambassador. One of the biggest impacts The Bridge has had on his life is helping him strengthen his social skills, make new friends, and learn new skills such as cooking, woodworking, and art. "Ten years from now, I believe I will look back on my time at The Bridge and really appreciate how it helped me grow and learn many different skills I would not be able to learn normally," he said.

Julia, another 12th grade student and student ambassador, has especially enjoyed culinary programs, including making chicken noodle soup from scratch, rolling her own sushi, and even leading her own pasta-making program. "I had never really cooked before The Bridge, but participating in these programs really inspired me to do that now," she shared.

Adriana, an 11th grade student, has especially enjoyed career-focused programs where volunteers provide a behind-the-scenes look at different professions through hands-on learning experiences. "I really enjoyed the What It's Like to Be a Nurse program because it is a career I have been interested in, and it showed me more of what it would be like to pursue it," she said.

We are so thankful to offer a safe space for local students as they continue to grow and become all that they were made to be. It is inspiring to see them grow in confidence, explore their interests, acquire new skills, and even discover possible career paths. To learn more about Empowering Teens Month and support our mission, visit thebridgeteencenter.org or call 708.532.0500.

*Different names were used for the safety of our students.

Thank you, Marquette Bank, for sponsoring The Bridge Bulletin this semester.