The Watertown Area Community Foundation Youth Council recently visited Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars (BSBB). This visit provided members with valuable insights into the challenges and successes of nonprofit work and inspired them to take action in support of our community.

At BSBB, the Youth Council met with Executive Director Stacy Hendricks, who shared the story behind creating the organization, as well as the challenges and victories that come with running a nonprofit. The group toured the women’s home managed by BSBB and had a particularly meaningful experience speaking with one of the clients about their journey to BSBB. One key takeaway was the importance of creating alcohol-free environments, as many BSBB clients are in recovery or participating in Drug Court. This insight motivated the Youth Council to organize a Free Movie Night on March 21 at the Goss, providing a family-friendly, substance-free event for the community.

The Youth Council, made up of three high school juniors and three seniors, plays a vital role in learning from local leaders and supporting youth-serving organizations. Since its inception in 2001, the council has awarded over $150,000 in grants to organizations making a difference in Watertown. Members meet monthly throughout the school year, with grant application reviews taking place in late April.

Current Youth Council members include seniors Josie Althoff, Isabella Horning, and Halle Olson, along with juniors Siri Bach, Leila Byer, and Whitney Martinsen. High school sophomores interested in joining the Youth Council can apply this spring and serve during their junior and senior years.

Through experiences like these, the Youth Council continues to grow as leaders while making a lasting impact on the Watertown community.

Learning from nonprofit leaders >>> WACF Youth Council members recently visited the Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars Women’s Home to learn more about BSBB and its local impact. Pictured: Youth Council Members Left to Right: Leila Byer, Isabella Horning, Halle Olson, Whitney Martinsen, and Siri Bach, and Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars Executive Director Stacy Hendricks.