Build-A-Bear Builds Funds for a Teen Centre

Build-A-Bear will be creating yet more memories at its next charity event.

To help raise funds for a local teen centre, Build-A-Bear is holding a pop-up workshop event in May. It is the first pop-up event that Build-A-Bear has held in the US, and it is taking place in Brick Township, New Jersey.

All attendees who have registered can build their own teddy bears and then enjoy a picnic together on the neighbouring beach – Windward Beach. The picnic will act as a ceremony to celebrate the event, and the local Mayor, John G. Ducey will attend.

The event is being run to help raise funds for the Lounge 270 Teen Centre. This local centre has space for teenagers to relax and socialise with televisions, video game consoles, computers, games and foosball. Or they can simply meet up there to spend times with their friends in a safe place. It has sessions for various ages to enjoy the facility, and it hosts events such as movie nights and video game tournaments.

The centre was set up through Brick Youth, a local initiative that aims to give the young people of Brick their say in the community.

Anyone who wants to build their own teddy bear at the event can register in advance. Bears are limited, so it is highly recommended that people register in advance. It costs $30 each to register, which includes a bear, a Brick Pride Bear T-Shirt, a heart ceremony, audio recording and a naming certificate. A portion of the registration fee will go to the Lounge 270 Teen Centre. Or, attendees can simply come along to the picnic.

Established over 20 years ago, Build-A-Bear has created more than 160 million toys for children, helping to create lasting memories for thousands of children around the world. It enables children to create a customised toy to experience more from their new purchase. Build-A-Bear Foundation has made several in-kind donations and is involved in numerous charitable partnerships. It also offers grants to a number of organisations that help children.