VIENNA – Arrowleaf is proud to announce that it has been awarded an $80,000 Capacity Building Grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) to support the expansion of Clyffe Café Late Bell, a student-run, after-school and Friday evening café designed to strengthen youth mental health, leadership, and well-being in rural Southern Illinois.
Clyffe Café Late Bell provides local high school students with paid work experience, mentoring, and skill-building opportunities while offering a safe, welcoming space for their peers to gather after school.
Through themed Friday night events, live music from local students, specialty drinks, and youth-led programming, Late Bell fosters social connection, creativity, and community pride.
“We are grateful to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois for investing in a project that empowers rural youth and gives them a sense of purpose, belonging, and connection,” said Sherrie L. Crabb, Chief Executive Officer of Arrowleaf. “Late Bell is more than a café—it’s a community space where students gain real-world job experience and build confidence in a supportive environment.”
The $80,000 grant will fund:
- Paid wages for 10–12 student employees who lead operations, food service, event planning, and social media coordination
- Supplies and materials needed to host youth-led programming, themed Friday nights, and
community events - Skill-building and mental well-being activities that support leadership, confidence, and life skills
The recommendation for this grant was strengthened by Arrowleaf’s existing partnership with BCBSIL.
Arrowleaf extends a special thanks to Nichole Colvin, Teresa Rockwell and the Financial Department team for maintaining a strong, positive relationship with the organization.
Clyffe Café Late Bell operates at 100 Oliver St. in Vienna, with student hours every Tuesday and Thursday from 3–5:30 p.m., and extended hours on Fridays from 3–11 p.m. featuring live
entertainment and theme nights. The initiative reflects Arrowleaf’s commitment to providing youth with opportunities that enhance well-being, workforce readiness, and community engagement.
For more information about Clyffe Café or the Late Bell program, visit myarrowleaf.org/clyffe-cafe, https://www.instagram.com/clyffecafe.latebell/ or contact Arrowleaf at 618‐658‐3079.
