About the Founder
Hi, I’m Brittany Jeltema, the founder of the Safe Spaces Project! Since 2016, I’ve had the privilege of transforming more than 15 classrooms, youth centers, and community spaces into inspiring havens for learning and growth. Along the way, I’ve been honored to impact thousands of students facing challenges like gun violence, minimal funding, natural disasters, and discrimination.
Since the very beginning, the Safe Spaces Project has been a labor of love. I have personally funded the majority of makeovers, exceeding more than $100,000 in donations to transform classrooms and community spaces into safe, inspiring environments. Now, as a parent with a family to support, I am unable to continue funding these projects on my own. However, my passion for making a difference remains as strong as ever. Through grants and community support, I’m committed to continuing this important work and expanding the impact of the Safe Spaces Project for years to come.
Creating safe and inclusive spaces is more than a mission—it’s my passion. I love combining creativity with purpose to design environments that spark joy, foster healing, and empower students to dream big. Watching these spaces come to life and seeing the smiles they bring to students, teachers, and communities motivates me to do more!
Our Mission
The Safe Spaces Project is dedicated to transforming classrooms, youth centers, and community spaces into inclusive, inspiring environments that foster learning, healing, and growth.
“Every student deserves a space where they feel safe, inspired, and empowered to dream big. I’m dedicated to creating environments that transform classrooms and change lives.”
— Brittany Jeltema, Founder of Safe Spaces Project
How does a makeover work?
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Vision and Interviews: I meet with the teacher, director, and sometimes students to discover their interests, favorite themes, and what their dream space looks like.
Partnerships: I secure collaborations with artists, creators, and businesses willing to donate items or time to the project.
Design Planning: I create a detailed mood board and blueprint to ensure the design is functional, inspiring, and tailored to the space.
Team Preparation: I hire necessary contractors for specialized tasks and inform my team of their roles.
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Task Assignments: Each team member is assigned a specific role, such as mural painting, floor installation, or building furniture.
Rapid Transformation: My team and I work tirelessly to complete the entire makeover in just 72 hours, ensuring every detail is perfect.
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The Grand Reveal: We celebrate the transformation by hosting a reveal party, where the teacher or director gets to see their new space for the first time.
Impact Celebration: The reveal highlights the hard work, creativity, and generosity that went into creating a space that inspires and empowers.
