| Message from our Executive Director | Message from the Executive Director |
News from The Bridge |
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At The Bridge we have become more “entrepreneurial” in several ways. For example; we have developed low cost fundraisers, such as the Bridge The Gap Walk (October 2009) and the Rock for Hope event (January 2010). These events allow concerned citizens who may not be able to afford to attend our traditional fundraisers to pitch in at a level they can. It was heartwarming to see local school staff pledge for one another’s walk and to have local high school students help the event run smoothly by working registration tables. Emphasis on raffle ticket sales in advance of fundraising events also allows for participation at lower price levels. Our goal is to grow the number of stakeholders, at all income levels, contributing for the benefit of their community. You do not have to be wealthy to make a difference. Help at whatever level you can afford with my assurance that we appreciate your gift and work hard to see that it is well spent. Another example: we have banded together with other agencies in unprecedented ways. By partnering with other agencies to create grant applications, we are more competitive with other applicants, increasing the likelihood of federal dollars being awarded to serve local residents. Currently, we are receiving funding through two such grants. Another application has been sent to Washington, and other joint efforts are contemplated. Basic Center is the federal term used to describe a comprehensive program for runaway youth that provides counseling and temporary housing when necessary. The Bridge is a federally designated Basic Center for Runaway Youth in partnership with Youth Organization Umbrella of Evanston, Omni Youth Services and The Harbour. Harbour provides housing when immediate reunification is not possible. The Bridge has begun providing group services for children who have experiences traumatic stress. This program, also funded by the federal government, is a consortium of urban, suburban and rural agencies throughout Illinois led by Youth Network Council of Chicago. The application was a strong contender for funding precisely because it resulted in services to a widely divergent population. Partnerships like the trauma initiative and the Basic Center Grant create opportunities to improve programming and secure funding that would otherwise be awarded to other communities. Challenging times call for innovation. The board and staff of The Bridge creatively work to ascertain our community needs are met. I’m proud to be part of it. Warmest regards, |
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When you think about entrepreneurs you may not think of nonprofit organizations like The Bridge. The economic woe facing our nation is unprecedented in the 45 year history of this organization. It has forced us to think differently to raise funding and garner charitable contributions to continue providing valuable services to youth and families.