The Bridge Teen Center Welcomes New Students in May

ORLAND PARK, IL — The Bridge Teen Center in Orland Park will be accepting new student membership applications for incoming 7th graders (and all 7th-12th graders) during “May Membership Month” throughout May.

The month-long event will provide local teens and families the opportunity to tour the facility, meet the team, and discover the 350+ free, unique and innovative programs and activities offered year-round that help teens in 7th-12th grade find hope, purpose and direction.

"This is our favorite time of the year as we typically welcome 300-500 brand new students, meet their families, and introduce them to all the amazing opportunities we offer at no cost throughout the year," said Priscilla Steinmetz, Founder of The Bridge Teen Center. "Witnessing students and their families discovering The Bridge for the very first time never gets old. In many cases, May Membership Month represents the beginning of a long and life-changing journey."

The Bridge Teen Center wants teens and families to be aware of the following opportunities this summer:

Weekday Programs for Teens
During the summer months alone, The Bridge Teen Center offers over 120+ programs designed around the interests of suburban teens. Program varieties include interactive STEM programs, art programs, music lessons, culinary programs, trade-focused programs, social hangout events and more. All weekday programs are completely FREE to teens and require advance sign-up at thebridgeteencenter.org.

FREE Friday Night Events
Every other Friday Night, The Bridge Teen Center hosts their infamous Friday night events from 7:30-10:30 p.m. These events provide teens a safe environment and typically include live music, karaoke, free food samples from local restaurants, outdoor activities (weather permitting) and more. The first Friday night event of the summer will take place on Friday, May 31. Advance sign up is NOT required for Friday Nights, however, an approved student membership is required. Like all Bridge programs, Friday night events are free of charge.

Job Readiness Program
The Bridge also offers students job readiness training opportunities through the organization’s “Thriftastic” program that takes place year-round in partnership with The Bridge Thrift Store. “Thriftastic” students commit to a set weekly schedule and meet individually with Bridge staff for self evaluation using The Bridge’s proprietary curriculum. Space is limited in this program, and applications are currently being accepted for the summer semester at www.thebridgeteencenter.org/volunteer/job-readiness.

Membership is free of charge and open to students who will be in 7th-12th grade in the fall. This includes current 6th graders going into 7th grade. All teens and families that are interested in joining The Bridge are required to complete a Student Membership Application online. Families are also strongly encouraged to schedule a 20-30 minute “family tour” in May to make the most of their Bridge membership. Tours can be scheduled online at thebridgeteencenter.org and all who attend will receive a special “Welcome Kit.”