| We are excited to announce the Grand Opening of the Bijou Teen Center in Holbrook on January 9th. More than two years in the making, this center is a shining example of what our community can achieve through collaboration.
The seeds for the teen center were planted back in 2023, when a youth-led mental health survey of northeast Arizona teens revealed a strong desire for a safe, inclusive space they could call their own. Multiple partners then worked together to transform that dream into a reality.
Grow Arizona Workforce Network secured a building donated by Brian and Jane Gardner, and David Smith of Arizona State Contracting pledged to renovate the structure at cost. United Way of Northern Arizona secured a $150,000 grant from Wellpoint, a leading healthcare company, to finance the renovations, while APS sponsored the creation of a STEM lab in the facility.
The Bijou features a creative arts studio, music room, commercial kitchen, retail entrepreneur space, coffee bar, and technology center. A welcoming lounge area offers teens a safe place to connect and relax. In addition to creative programming, the center will provide soft skills training, entrepreneurial education, and postsecondary planning support.
Please join us to celebrate a place that will empower and support our northeast Arizona youth for years to come! |
