TRE LOUNGE TRE MINISTRIES transforms to
BY KATHRYN SWEETER
PHOTOS BY KATHRYN SWEETER
On Nov. 1, 2018, the formerly known restaurant, Tre Lounge, reopened its doors with a new name and a new purpose. Tre Ministries was created with the purpose of unlocking the potential of youth and young adults spiritually, socially, physically and academically. The organization runs off of three values: Jesus, togetherness and gratitude. Tre was started by Sandy Berven, who is also the high school youth and young adult coordinator at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. Berven was inspired to create this space after noticing a need for a welcoming atmosphere in Sioux Falls. Her generosity and compassion for others has led her to establish an area where everyone feels accepted. “I have been visiting with college and high school students for years and understand they need a place to feel accepted and encouraged,” said Berven. “Tre creates a welcoming experience many students refer to as home.” The space is hospitable to everyone, but was designed specifically for high school students, college students and young adults. Berven met her goal of creating an inviting atmosphere that offers many activities to partake in. “We offer plenty of space to study, play games and just be,” said Berven. “We also create events that are focused
on building relationships, connecting people with the community, churches, colleges and businesses that make up our community.” Many high school and college students in Sioux Falls use Tre Ministries as a place to study and do homework. LHS senior, Morgan Pederson, has benefited from Tre in several ways. “I go to Tre every week for Collision meetings and a few other times [a week] if I need a quiet place to study,” said Pederson. “I love the setup with comfy chairs and tables, and it is easy to gather there with friends.” Along with plentiful, comfortable seating, Tre has a unique coffee bar that serves coffee drinks from Coffea, pastries and other treats. “I love the hot chocolate at Tre. It is so yummy and has a big layer of whipped cream,” said Pederson. Tre Ministries is open Tuesday-Friday from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Stop by Tre Ministries to experience the inclusive environment that is valued by many. “I recommend Tre because it has a very welcoming atmosphere and is a great place to gather with people,” said Pederson.
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