June 18, 2025
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Photos: Second Story Teen Center in Princeton hosts groundbreaking

By Scott Anderson
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Volunteers and supporters gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new Second Story Teen Center on Saturday, March 13, 2024 in Princeton. The 6,000 square foot building will be located at 125 South Main Street in Princeton. the facility will increase the capacity for providing numerous educational, mentorship, health, nutritional and social programs for Bureau County youth in grades 6-12. The project is expected to cost $600,000 and $300,000 has already been raised. Second Story is funded solely on private donations and the building committee is currently seeking financial and in-kind donations to invest in the future of the youth or Bureau County and their communities. Second Story was founded in 2009 by Jeff and Dana VanAutreve in response to the disturbing number of suicides by local youth and has offered a safe and inclusive space for them to find a sense of purpose and acceptance, companionship and encouragement through the caring force of numerous volunteers. Every Tuesday and Friday, between 80-100 youth are fed, provided with basic needs items and participate in mental, health, physical and life-skills programs. Forty families are assisted each month and approximately 8,000 youth are served each year. All services are free.

Volunteers and supporters gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the site of the where the new Second Story Teen Center in Princeton will be built. The 6,000 square foot building will be located at 125 N. Main St. The facility will increase the capacity for providing numerous educational, mentorship, health, nutritional and social programs for Bureau County youth in sixth through 12th grades. Second Story is funded solely on private donations and the building committee is seeking financial and in-kind donations to invest in the future of the youth of Bureau County and their communities. (Scott Anderson)

Scott Anderson

Scott Anderson

Over 15 years covering news, sports and events in the Illinois Valley. Support my work with a digital subscription.