This year, The Bridge
Family Center celebrates its 35th anniversary. The
Bridge was born in 1969, a time of unrest in our country. A group
of brave and committed people came together to try to help troubled
youth who were hanging out in West Hartford Center. Though their
mission was not an easy one, they refused to give up.
In essence, they
planted a seed and nurtured its growth. They made sure The Bridge
had sufficient nutrients to grow and become stronger so future
generations could benefit from its existence. They shielded it from
storms and made sure it grew in the right direction. Others have
nurtured The Bridge along the way so that it could continue to help
others. Today, our roots are planted firmly in West Hartford but
our branches continue to reach out to the surrounding regions.
I have
been part of The Bridge for almost seventeen years. I continue to
be moved by its resiliency, strength, and commitment to its
mission. Each year, others come to ensure our continued growth and
stability. Each year, we are able to reach out to others who need
us. Each year, more and more children, youth, and families benefit
from our services. Each year, we become stronger because 35 years
ago a group of brave and determined people came together to make a
difference in the lives of young people.