Several hundred people attended Saturday's Garage Party and enjoyed food from various Glen Ellyn restaurants, live music from Local Favorite, and mingling with friends. Presented by Bridge Builders at the Gearhead Garage in downtown Glen Ellyn, the Garage Party fundraiser served as a benefit for the Auto Donation Program of Bridge Communities. Several Glen Ellyn businesses donated food or services to the event. View photos here from this year's Garage Party fundraiser.
Bridge Communities, founded in 1988 by two community volunteers, Mark Milligan and Bob Wahlgren, has grown to become the largest transitional housing program in DuPage County. The majority of families served by the charity are single-parents with children, many of whom are survivors of domestic violence. Through its mentoring program, Bridge Communities provides families with the necessary life skills to function successfully in their community. A two-year program provides additional training or academic opportunities to increase income and reduce debt.
Bridge Builders is a grassroots group of individuals who support Bridge Communities and provide opportunities for their clients. Bridge Builders' fundraising helps raise additional fund to augment Bridge Communities’ budget and extends programs.
Examples of what Bridge Builders has done in the past:
• Through the proceeds raised at the Garage Party, we were able to cover the repair and maintenance costs of vehicles that are donated to Bridge Communities.
• We have provided scholarships for summer camps, music lessons and other activities that are perks that many of our children enjoy, but prior to our efforts this would not have been possible for Bridge Communities to provide.
• Educational Seminars on wellness and well- being for single head of household Moms.
• Assorted holiday parties and family outings to events such as going to see the Harlem Globe Trotters play at the United Center.
• Most proudly, Bridge Builders is active in breaking the cycle of poverty by providing scholarships for students who go on to college.
View photos here from this year's Garage Party fundraiser, then click on a thumbnail to view the slideshow.
