Over the last 10 years, Bridges Out of Poverty has taken off, both nationally and internationally. There are now more than 200 communities using some part of Bridges and Getting Ahead, and the need to connect us across sites and sectors drove the creation of our national nonprofit, Advancing Bridges, Inc.
Advancing Bridges, Inc. is doing just what its name implies: advancing Bridges constructs through our new national collaborative organization. But we need you—Bridges users—to help expand our collective success and influence in changing lives and communities.
In the words of Robert Putnam, author of acclaimed books on social capital such as Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community and Better Together: Restoring the American Community, we are “better together.”
Imagine the impact we can have in the months and years ahead if we pool our collective knowledge, leverage our resources, and focus on advocacy together. Think about how much more stable and sustainable our communities will be. We can create a better bridge out of poverty for thousands—even millions—of people!
You Can Help!
Regardless of your skill level, expertise, or interest, Advancing Bridges offers a place where you can make a real difference. A great starting place is serving on one of our many national steering committees:
- Communication and Marketing
- Membership and Growth
- Finance and Budget
- Advocacy
- Best Practices
- Fund Development
As a committee member you will participate in regular conference calls, bring your own experience and perspectives to the conversation, and take on some projects or tasks to move the effort along. Figure two to five hours per month. You’ll learn a great deal in the process too.
This is a critical time as we launch our new initiative. We hope you’ll jump on board and help us get moving. To volunteer and make a difference, contact us at AdvancingBridges@gmail.com.
By Bonnie Bazata, Executive Director, St. Joseph County Bridges Out of Poverty Initiative (SJC Bridges) and Al Rivett, President, Advancing Bridges
