SHINE is a support group for high school girls who have experienced sexual trauma.The
8-week group begins on Tuesday, March 6, 2012, 6:15-7:30 p.m. You have the right to feel safe at all times. If someone has made you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, then it could be sexual abuse. If you have been in a sexual abuse situation, we invite you to attend SHINE. Teens will join together in a confidential setting with their peers to share experiences and gain strength to move forward with their lives. The group will be held at the Bridge Counseling Center, 1038 Farmington Avenue, West Hartford. There is no cost for the group. Call Marji Vitale's confidential phone line at 860.313.1119, ext. 104, if you have questions or are interested in participating.

During the holiday season, from November through December, the media bombards us with twinkling lights and beautiful photos of perfect loving families. That is not the reality for many children and families. The holiday season can be a stressful time, especially in this tough economy. 

The Bridge serves many families and children through counseling, support groups, and family programs at our Family Resource Center. We operate several residential programs for youth whose lives are in crisis. Most of these young people have suffered tragedy, abuse, or abandonment. 

To help the children and families we serve who are in need of extra help, we have put together our 2011 Wish List. We believe that gifts from our Wish List will meet needs and add joy. A simple gift can be a small miracle. A gift card is the best kind of gift because it allows staff members and even the kids themselves to pick out something they need or want--warm mittens, a CD, a new sweater, a favorite snack.   ...read more

The West Hartford Family newsletter, published by the Bridge two to three times per year and sent to the parents of school children K-12 (or to the appropriate age group for the topic), provides articles on issues important to parents. This latest issue was written by Deborah Zipkin, the director of the Bridge's Family Resource Center. Deborah recognizes that parenting is hard and stressful. She lets you off the hook a little--you don't have to be a perfect parent to raise healthy, well-adjusted children. 

The Bridge is offering the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) from January through June 2012 at its Family Resource Center (FRC) at Charter Oak International Academy. It is a 20-week class in civic engagement that culminates in an individual service project. Sessions will be offered on public speaking, the legislative process, state and local budgets, evaluation and program accountability, how state and local government work, and understanding economic trends and their impact on families. We are recruiting 20 to 25 parents who live or work in West Hartford. Upon graduating from the program, these parents will share their knowledge with other parents in future sessions of PLTI, passing along the lessons learned to increase the number of parents advocating on behalf of all children. If you are interested in participating, contact Deborah Zipkin or call 860.233.4701.

A nonprofit organization of volunteer "knitters for peace," Serenity Scarves raises funds and awareness for the Bridge and for six other local, peace-oriented nonprofit organizations. Its boutique-quality handcrafted gifts are perfect for the holidays, birthdays, baby showers, and special occasions! Learn how 100% of your donation directly benefits the Bridge when you choose a Bridge-designated knitted gift. The Serenity Scarves online gallery displays photos of all currently available gifts, including captions that provide detailed information about each item, its value, and which nonprofit organization it supports. For more information, to schedule a private showing, or to volunteer as an experienced knitter or crocheter, please email Director Lynn G. 

On Friday night, September 30, 300 young people had a great time at the first middle school dance of the new school year. The students were thrilled to have 95.7 KISS present at the dance.

The Bridge will sponsor two dances this year for students in grades 6, 7, and 8. They are always fun and safe for kids.

Appropriate behavior, dance, and attire are required, and several Bridge staff and volunteers chaperone the events. 

The next dance will be March 23, 2012.