Non-profit has eyes set on a brighter future

SALEM, Ohio (WKBN) — The Brightside Project is inching closer to their goal of building a brighter future for children in the valley.

Last month, the non-profit announced it is raising money to purchase the former Donnell Ford Lincoln building on Continental Drive in Salem. They need a total of $3 million to purchase and renovate the space.

The idea started as a simple joke between co-directors Lisa Vittorio and Scott Lewis. They were concerned the purchase was out of their reach. But the more they thought about it, the more it became closer to reality.

The Brightside Project has needed a new space since last year. Right now, Vittorio says their space is too small and acts as just a walk-through experience. A new building would allow them to expand their programming.

“The current building is really just a walk through experience. They just walk through. They get their stuff and they leave,” said Vittorio. “What the youth center will allow us to do is take a more comprehensive in-depth approach with these children.”

Vittorio says the youth center will have 3 components: academics, health and workforce development.

She says they are closer to their goal. As long as all the pieces come together, the non-profit needs $850,000. Between donations and pending grants, Vittorio says they hope to officially purchase the building this summer.

She says they are thankful for the owners of the property for being supportive of their goal and giving them enough time to get the funds.

For more information about the campaign or how to help visit the Brightside Project website.

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