Crystal Jones calls Wisconsin home, but if her day-to-day life says anything about her, she might also now say the same about the Bronx. She’s getting her bachelor’s in social work while working part time at the Bronx Alehouse, where she’s able to expand her interest in craft beers. Her goal is to land a job with either a foster care or adoption agency.

She’s also a cyclist, and the mix of all these interests gave her an idea. She hosted an event called Ride the Bronx, a 20-mile ride with stops at local Bronx breweries. And she wanted the Next Generation Center to be the beneficiary. “I chose this organization because I fully support and stand behind their mission,” said Crystal. NGC connects young men and women who have been in the foster care or juvenile justice system, or have become disconnected from society in some other way, with education and employment skills in an effort to make sure they’re successful, independent adults.

“They address issues that most people sweep under the rug when thinking about the youth in the foster care system,” said Crystal. “NGC makes sure these kids have the opportunity to reach their full potential and to experience all possibilities that lay in their future. As a New York City community, we should choose to encourage positivity, empowerment and a love of learning into these young adults so that we can ALL enjoy a brighter future."

We can’t really say it much better ourselves. Thanks for your dedication, Crystal.