Mighty Mac on a Mission: Sophomore Sets Out on Anti-Bullying Campaign

Credit: Mother McAuley High School | Shannon Baker last week presents a check for nearly $8,700 to The Bridge Teen Center

A Mother McAuley sophomore has put her big voice to good use.

Singer and musician Shannon Baker’s anti-bullying effort ‘I vow 2’ began as an attempt to lift a friend’s spirits after an experience with bullying, and has blossomed into an inspirational show of support for Southland teens.

Baker, who creates songs about bullying, organized a fundraiser at 115 Bourbon Street, stirring fans and supporters to raise $8,693 for The Bridge Teen Center of Orland Park. The Bridge is a nonprofit community center that was designed around the interests and needs of teens in the suburbs.

Programs are offered during after-school and unsupervised hours, where students can develop mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually in a safe environment.

Baker performed her original songs throughout the benefit earlier this month.

“By singing something, you can hear the emotion in a voice, and it kind of moves people, whether they want to be moved or not,” Baker said, of the inspiration behind her efforts. “It definitely works on me, and I thought it would help other people.”

Described as “bubbly,” and one who speaks her mind, Baker was compelled to write her first song—Too Young to Be Broken—after witnessing the impact of bullying on a friend.

“I speak my mind a lot. Which can be good in some situations, but in others it might not be the best. I’m just … a positive thinker,” she said.

“The words really relate to me, about being different. It’s not always easy to be ‘weird.’”

Baker has performed regularly at The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 71st Ct. in Orland Park.

Her willingness to express herself has touched center founder Priscilla Steinmetz.

“It gives us hope for this generation,” Steinmetz said. “So many discredit young people and the power of their existence.

“Even during turbulence, we need to keep students busy, seeing the seeds of greatness inside of them and helping it shine.”

Baker’s voice booms over other McAuley activities, including a capella, the school musical, chorus and liturgical choir.

“She has a great support system,” Steinmetz said. “For her to be able to speak from her heart and use her talents is a beautiful thing.”