For Kara Bright, his day in the sun came with every opportunity to work with young people. First, as a professional educator and coach, then through his work with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), and ultimately with his vision for Brightway Center. The Lord called Kara home before he had an opportunity to see his vision become a reality, but through his legacy and dedicated friend his dream lives on.

Brightway Center is 175 acres of rural land located just a few miles south of Smithfield, Ohio on County Route 15. The property was donated by our founder, Kara Bright, in order to insure the completion of his lifelong dream to develop a Christian retreat community for anyone looking for a place of safety, encouragement, and Christ-like love.
 

Kara’s most fulfilling accomplishment was his investment into the lives of youth through Brightway Center and his association with the FCA. "The biggest reward is getting calls and letters from young people who remember the life changing experiences of our retreats." Kara always believed there was too much pressure placed on our young people to be # 1. Though he embraced the competitive spirit, he often said, "We need to show more compassion. We need to teach kids to think for themselves, instead of following the crowd or popular opinion blindly."

Kara’s vision is just as alive today as when he first experienced God’s calling on his life to work with young people. A dedicated team of Christian leaders are committed to fulfilling the work of Brightway Center. Plans are in place to develop 40 acres of the property to accommodate a variety of programs and services.