“Trauma as children can have lifelong impacts to their health,” remarked Bridge for Youth President Lisa Mears, speaking to an audience of clinicians and medical professionals from across the globe. “Today, we’re working to together to support youth and their lifelong health.”
For the third year in a row, The Bridge for Youth was honored to be the charity recipient at UnitedHealth Group’s Sages of Clinical Services Awards, an annual event honoring exceptional clinicians who demonstrate UHG’s core values. Hosted at Raddison Blu Mall of America, each table at the event was given a $250 gift card to go into the mega mall and shop for winter clothing for youth at The Bridge.
“It’s not every day you get to do a shopping spree at the biggest mall in America,” one attendee laughed. “It’s even better knowing we’re shopping for a good cause. We’re going to get boots, jackets, hats, and gloves. I want to find a store that will give me the most bang for my buck.”
This charity project sparked excitement and competition among attendees, many who traveled from out of state and out of the country, to be here.
“This reminds us that youth homelessness does not have an address, and it takes all of us to help,” Mears added.
“I come from rural South Carolina, where our healthcare system has a lot of challenges,” another attendee said. “Being here and seeing everyone come together to give back is inspiring. We’re all in the field to help people. Us shopping for youth is an extension of that.”
By the end of the night, attendees spent over $7,000 on clothing for youth at The Bridge, making it our biggest in-kind donation of the year. It’s a bold reminder of how impactful a commUNITY of support can be.
At The Bridge, we know that our work cannot be done without the love and care of our entire commUNITY. Last year alone, supporters gave over 1,200 volunteer hours and donated over $250,000 through in-kind giving. Each of these gifts help ensure that youth experiencing homelessness are safe, accepted, and supported.
“Love and care means taking the time do what is right,” one attendee smiled. “Shelter and housing are healthcare. So, to be supporting an organization as innovative as The Bridge for Youth feels like the right thing to do, and the best thing to do.”
Thank you again to UnitedHealth Group for supporting The Bridge with this meaningful gift!
Interested in learning the ways you can support youth in shelter? Click here to learn more.
