The Fr. Bernard Youth Center has received a number of grants in support of its capacity-building initiatives. In addition to $80,000 previously pledged, the youth center in Mt. Angel just received a $10,000 grant from the Juan Young Trust.
These funds will be used to identify and attract new customers to rent the facility, taking advantage of its 15,000 square feet of meeting and recreation area.
“We are thrilled to have the support of the Juan Young Trust and share their interest in serving the needs of young people throughout the greater Portland are,.” Don Robison, director of the Fr. Bernard Youth Center said.
The funds will be used to finance marketing and sales campaigns reaching out to youth organizations, inviting them to visit the center. The money is considered capacity- enhancement seed funding that will stimulate new customers, generating revenues for the center.
The center will celebrate its third anniversary in January. It serves an estimated 2,000 young people annually. Uses range from teaching life skills to at-risk young adults to spiritual development and confirmation retreats.
A Catholic Lay Ministry, the Fr. Bernard Youth Center opens its doors to varying religious denominations and non-denominational programs.
The Juan Young Trust donation will help develop weekday rental business at the center. In addition to a chapel, the facility has a commercial-rated kitchen, theater-style multi-purpose meeting room with surround sound, a dining and recreation room with seating for up to 120 persons, expansive outdoor grounds and small breakout meeting rooms.
On-site dormitory lodging is also available and there are several nearby lodging options.
All proceeds from facility rentals are used to support programs for youth and young adults at the center.
Anyone interested in receiving facility rental information can call 503-845-4097 or visit www.fbyc.info
