Dear Friend of The Bridge,

You guide.  You counsel.  You comfort.  You mentor.  You turn lives around.

And that’s just what you do through The Bridge.

You are a part of the triumphs and successes, large and small, of thousands of children and families served by The Bridge each year.  Young people like Ana and Joe.

Ana spent two months in detention before coming to The Bridge.  Prior to detention, she had lived with various relatives, moved 16 times, and was even homeless for a summer.  She struggled with substance abuse and was legally charged.  She isolated herself and did not trust others.

At Eleanor House, our therapeutic group home in Hartford, Ana made great strides.  She grew from being a scared young girl into a more mature and happy teenager who is now employed, living with a foster family, and participating as a “big sister” in a mentoring program.  Eleanor House gave her the chance to remain in the community, gain skills, and learn to trust caring adults.  Best of all, she began to laugh and share again with the support of her Bridge “family.”

Like Ana, Joe came to The Bridge with a troubled history.  He arrived at our Moving On Project, a transitional living apartment program for older youth, as an angry teen.  The staff treated him with compassion and respect, and Joe began to open up.  Gradually he formed strong bonds with them, learning to take responsibility for his choices and to think things through.  He started smiling more, and even played occasional pranks.

Joe graduated from high school and entered the Marines after long and careful thought.  Once he made the decision to join, we all watched Joe transform from a boy to a man before our very eyes.  The amount of confidence he gained and the grace with which he carried himself were amazing to watch.  He was a great example to his peers.  He’s a proud dad now who still calls and visits us when he comes home.

Without your support, there is little hope for young people like Ana and Joe.

But because of your support, Ana and Joe have found their way—and so will others.

Since 1969, The Bridge has helped thousands of children and families succeed.  And you are essential to that success.

The Bridge helps at-risk youth.  For those who are abused and abandoned, we provide shelter, food, and clothing.  For those at risk for substance abuse, gang involvement, or early sexual activity, The Bridge provides counseling, support groups, and healthy alternatives.

Ana and Joe have had difficult paths in life.  But because of you, The Bridge was always there—just like a family.  You and The Bridge have helped Ana and Joe find their way.

The Bridge provides role models.  Everyone needs role models, but some boys and girls do not get them at home.  The Bridge creates a good family environment and helps restore hope and rebuild lives every day.

Every day, your gift helps people right here in West Hartford and surrounding towns overcome anger, hurt, and despair.  Your gift helps them build happier, more successful lives.

Ana is able to mentor younger girls because of all she has been through.  She understands them and now serves as the kind of role model she experienced at The Bridge.  Joe learned maturity and responsibility through The Bridge and is now equipped to serve his country and his young family.

Your support helps Ana, Joe, and other boys and girls grow and thrive.  Through their ups and downs, The Bridge is here for them—with your help.  Please send your gift to help them find their way and succeed in life.  On behalf of each of these children, I thank you.

Very Truly,

Margaret A. Hann                                                       

Executive Director                                                       

P.S.  Your new or increased gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar under a special challenge grant from the Bissell Foundation.  Your contribution helps us restore hope to kids like Ana and Joe every day.  Please send your check in the enclosed envelope today!  Thank you for helping Ana and Joe on their paths to success.