The resilience, strength, and determination of youth at The Bridge is unmatched. In 2025 alone, 84% of youth were in school and/or employed, and 92% of them made progress towards their personal goals!
We’re proud to walk alongside youth at these pivotal moments. As we celebrate the start of 2026, we sat down with some of the youth at The Bridge to reflect on what they have accomplished and what their resolutions are for the new year:
Jessica: A youth at Resilience House
This past year, I was able to let go of people who weren’t good for me. While at The Bridge, I gained more positive relationships and learned how to advocate for myself. Now I feel like I am in the right spot to graduate from high school and get a job.
The thing that has kept me determined has been visualizing the finish line. I feel like everyone comes to The Bridge without knowing what their next step might be. So having a team stand by my side to figure out what comes next has been so helpful for me.
The Bridge has empowered me to make positive choices for myself with a clear head.
Anya: A former youth at The Bridge and current youth voice leader (Pictured right)
For years, I felt misunderstood and invalidated. It felt like my authentic self wasn’t welcomed. It is something that has held me back a lot. So, in 2026 my goal is to let people think whatever they want; who I really am always shines through.
A motto I am learning to follow this year is: “It’s not what they call you, it is what you answer to.”
I don’t aim to convince people who are committed to misunderstanding. I show up as my authentic self now more than ever.
Taty: A member of the Youth Advisory Board (Pictured left)
My New Year’s Resolution is to learn more parenting skills as my two boys get older and face new challenges. My boys are growing up so fast, and I want to be present for them.
Another big goal of mine is starting the process of transferring to law school!
Zoe: A youth at Resilience House
Goals help you become a better version of yourself. You have to know your past challenges and grow from them. For me, I used last year as a time to get even closer to who I want to be.
I’ve always wanted to be an actor. My hope is to study theater in college. So, this past year I made sure to show up and do well in school. Looking into 2026, I want to gain more experience as an actor.
What has kept me determined is embracing the struggle. Nothing good comes easy. Knowing that things are hard reminds me I am on the right path!
Will: A member of The Bridge’s Youth Advisory Board (Pictured left)
My goal for 2026 is to go back to school and start taking at least two classes at Normandale Community College by the summertime!
Nova: A member of The Bridge’s Youth Advisory Board (Pictured right)
In 2025, I made it a goal to read 12 books. I crushed that goal and made it to 32! Now in 2026, my goal is to read 45. I am already 3 down!
Aaron: A youth at Resilience House
This past year, I overcame a lot. One accomplishment that stands out is how The Bridge helped me in repairing my relationship with my mom.
Family is what keeps me motivated to my goals. My mom and little sister are always supporting me. They really pushed me to finish this last season of playing football.
Setting goals can change the trajectory of your own path. It could even change the path of others around you. In 2026, I want to have more self-control and be the best version of myself. I want to inspire others the way my family inspires me.
At The Bridge for Youth, our goal for 2026 is to continue empowering youth through safe shelter, basic needs, and healthy relationships. To continue our work of walking alongside youth, we need your help. Make a New Year’s gift to The Bridge today!
