A SENSE OF COMMUNITY is one of the hallmarks of the greater Barrington area and a primary reason that Barrington Area Volunteer Connection (BAVC) was formed. Many nonprofits in our area create partnerships with the common goal of helping residents benefit from their services. BStrong Together is a perfect example of how collaboration is essential. I spoke with Kyle Kick, executive director of BStrong Together, to learn more. 

How did you get involved at BStrong Together? 

BStrong Together was created in Spring 2017 when three organizations, focused on the well-being of Barrington area children, decided to merge their efforts to take a more wholistic approach to providing programs, support, and resources to the community. As a former elementary school teacher and a then 15-year resident of Barrington, I was excited for the opportunity to help guide these efforts in our shared goal of raising healthy, happy, resilient, and adaptable youth prepared to navigate our complex world. 

What is the impact BStrong Together has had on the community? 

BStrong Together has been able to bring together stakeholders including students, parents, educators, experts, community members, and organizations to provide critical information and resources to the community on important topics facing our youth and families. Whether it’s a program on trusted adults, finding balance in your family, managing stress, hosting a safe party for teens, talking with your kids about depression and anxiety, or making healthy choices around underage drinking and drugs, from supporting new moms with babies to high school seniors headed off on their next great adventure— BStrong Together is there to help! 

What type of volunteer help do you need at BStrong? 

Community members interested in volunteering can get involved by joining a BStrong Together committee (Programming, Marketing, or Fundraising) or by volunteering to help at specific events like our Wellness Walk or an expert speaker event. 

Are there new initiatives or programs coming up at BStrong? 

BStrong Together is excited to join Courageous Conversations, Barrington 220, Good Shepherd Hospital, the Barrington Area Library, and so many others for the We Belong to Each Other initiative. We will be working with adults, teaching them how to build strong, safe, supportive, and caring relationships with the young people in their lives at our One Trusted Adult Book Club on November 19 at the Barrington Area Library, and look forward to our new TED on Tuesdays get togethers starting in 2023. For more information on BAVC, visit thebavc.org.