Distance learning, isolation from friends and much uncertainty have challenged youth during the past 15 months. But six young women embraced the challenge and focused on their goals. Now, those young women will graduate from high school as well as The Friendship Club, a program where they have learned many life skills, made lifelong friends and been prepared for the next step, whether it’s college, trade school or full-time work. The Friendship Club, a 26-year-old organization, merged with NEO to become Bright Futures for Youth in summer 2020. “Being a teenager is very difficult during the best of times, from the emotional and physical changes to the pressure from peers and school,” said Jennifer Singer, executive director of Bright Futures for Youth and co-founder of The Friendship Club, in a news release. “Add the challenges of COVID — from the frustrations of online learning to the loss of in-person, quality time with friends — and it’s been a very tough period for youth. But these young women are excellent examples of what can be achieved with hard work and persistence. They are truly resilient and remarkable.”