BRIDGES

BRIDGES offers the following pathways: CONNECT - One-time events and workshops that allow students to experience the Bridge Builders program by engaging in meaningful topics through active, hands-on activities. COLLABORATE - Youth are empowered to apply what they have learned to improve their neighborhoods, schools and communities. CHANGE - Led by youth, for youth, this social change initiative provides the training resources and support young people need to lead major community improvements.

BRIDGES brings together diverse youth from all backgrounds across the Greater Memphis area and transforms them into confident and courageous leaders. The Bridge Builders program prepares youth in the Mid-South to be leaders for community transformation now and in the future. The goal is to train youth leaders to lay aside individual, social, economic and cultural differences to work for the benefit of all. The program focuses on three core areas: Diversity Appreciation, 21st Leadership Skills , and Community Action. The program's curriculum includes experiential activities and discussions that develop critical thinking and problem-solving, and appreciation of different perspectives, and engage youth in sustainable activities to improve the local community. Bridge Builders consists of three levels of programming: CONNECT- short-term leadership development experiences for 6-12 grade youth COLLABORATE- year-round program for 7-12 grade youth including week-long summer conferences and 6 additional trainings CHANGE- intensive leadership and community change internship for youth in grades 8-12