The Bridge for Youth’s commUNITY stood together and answered the call at Create, our signature fundraising event. Together we raised over $100,000 – and it’s not too late to make a contribution!
A generous anonymous donor is making this impact even greater. All new and increased gifts to The Bridge for Youth will be matched dollar for dollar. Click here to make your gift today!
The power of community filled the room at The Hutton House as guests gathered for an infusion of art and food to support youth experiencing homelessness. Guests had the opportunity to interact with food as art through Chowgirls’ Dutch Still Life Scene and their dessert station with a floral frosting painting. Cheesecake Funk wow ’ed the room with delicious and memorable slices of Prince’s favorite cheesecake.
Local art and unique experiences lined the silent auction tables, and attendees enjoyed an incredible playlist curated by The Bridge’s Youth Advisory Board. As the program began, emceed by comedian, Miss Shannan Paul, we were uplifted by powerful performances by youth choir, Known MPLS.
“Our community shows up with incredible resilience and love,” expressed Lisa Hicks Mears, The Bridge for Youth President. “This gathering is part of that spirit – creating space for new connections, dignity building, and providing care to one and other.”
Encouraging everyone to literally stand up together, Lisa asked guests to share words of affirmation with those around them to ground us in the moment.
The night’s program became a bold reminder that it takes all of us to create a world where all youth are safe, accepted, and supported. We then took a moment to honor an individual who has been a partner in ensuring this vision comes to life.
This year, we honored Senator Scott Dibble with our Legacy Award. Working at the state level, Senator Dibble has transformed the way we are able to support young families through legislation leadership, advocacy, and direct personal support to end homelessness for over a decade. Currently, he is The Bridge’s legislative sponsor in the Senate for a $7.5 million request capital request to expand Young families housing.
“I’d like to share this award with the youth,” he proclaimed, acknowledging the importance and power of youth voice.
The power of youth voice was on full display as we watched Xaveria’s story. A former youth in emergency shelter and supportive housing at The Bridge, she is now building her independence at college and is a leader in ‘So What If I Am’, The Bridge’s support group for LGBTQ+ youth.
Click here to watch Xaveria’s story.
“The Bridge for Youth changed the way I look at myself and pushed me to achieve my goals. It was last fall where I took a big step and moved out on my own to start college,” Xaveria smiled. “Looking back, I am so glad I didn’t give up. And looking out at this room of supporters, I know your generosity will inspire youth like me to do the same”.
With full hearts and teary eyes, bid paddles were raised as guests committed to making significant gifts that fuel success stories like Xaviera’s. As the night concluded with an encore performance from Known MPLS, joy and empowerment filled the air.
On behalf of everyone at The Bridge for Youth, thank you to everyone who was a part of making this event so special. We hope you continue to walk with us on this journey to ensure all youth are safe, accepted, and supported. Click here to learn more.
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
