Overview

Bridge1980 is a nationally recognized empowerment and leadership program designed to engage participants ages 13 and up. Here, we inspire our community to learn new skills, build meaningful connections, and interact with diverse groups and individuals. These authentic interactions are the foundation for developing social-emotional strengths that help our members thrive in real-world scenarios.

44 Years of ​Empowerment

For over four decades, our mission has been to empower people ​to live their best lives through enhancing life skills, building ​healthy communities, and living with purpose, love, and ​compassion for oneself and others.

And while a lot has changed since we opened our doors in 1980, ​our commitment to the community is stronger than ever. From ​offering various interactive workshops to training sessions ​focused on leadership, communication, self-care, and more – our ​vision is a world where every interaction "Bridges" people to ​resources, community, and ultimately, their authentic self.

Offerings

Throughout its history, Bridge1980 has offered trauma-informed, holistic care, which nurtures physically, spiritually, and emotionally. With that as our foundation, we facilitate safe spaces for building authentic, harmonious relationships among our diverse participants. We appreciate your interest, and we look forward to getting to know you or your group!

We can be reached via phone or text ​at 856-305-3714

http://contact.bridge1980.com

Contact Us

Testimonials

We believe Bridge1980 (previously known as “The Bridge”) is often best described by our participants ​and their achievements. Here are some examples:

I am grateful for The Bridge because this organization has developed my character. I’ve been a part ​of this organization for three years, and because of The Bridge, I have gotten a job, I am a part of ​the honor society, and I am more emotionally mature. As a 21-year-old autistic man, I can say that I ​have gained more self-love and appreciation for myself. Thank you so much for supporting us.”

– Elvis R., Pennsauken

“The Bridge has impacted my life in a significant way by guiding me along my personal journey in ​life, ultimately allowing me to change who I am to who I want to be. I used to be so passive and ​quiet that I allowed opportunities to pass and instead fostered toxic environments and situations. ​These occurrences reaffirmed my preconceptions of myself that I was not capable nor deserving of ​living the life I wanted.”

– Cat P ., Gloucester City

“I always credit The Bridge as the key to my survival and life. As a teen living in Camden, there were ​not many resources for positive things to do. The Bridge has been a consistent resource/Family to ​help build me into the positive man I am today! The Bridge has motivated me to be true to who I ​am and who I wanted to be - A Leader. I am forever and eternally grateful for all the love, support, ​and life skills/leadership that The Bridge has instilled in me.”

– Peter B., Brooklawn

“The Bridge has impacted my life in so many different ways. When I was young, I was very shy, and ​at times I doubted myself as a good role model, big sister, and good daughter. Today, I continue to ​practice and pay it forward with all of the skills I’ve learned. I would not be where I am today ​without the love and support from The Bridge!”

– Tia B., Brooklawn

"I started at The Bridge at the age of 13. I was very shy and had zero communication skills. Coming ​to The Bridge saved my life in every way possible. When I was at The Bridge, I always felt like I ​belonged, like I had a family. I always felt welcomed. Here I am 30 years later, and I'm still a part of ​The Bridge. I'm still part of the family."

– Madeline S., West Deptford

"The Bridge has impacted our whole family positively. Attending the weekly groups and activities ​allowed us to understand ourselves and see our role in the world. We learned how to understand ​what goes on around us and how to deal with our thoughts and emotions. We each learned how to ​deal with people and grow from our adversities. As a family, The Bridge has taught us proper and ​effective communication skills, resiliency, and tolerance of others. As a family, we learned how to ​better understand and support each other when we go through changes in our lives."

– Juan & Mary C., Camden

"When I started attending The Bridge, I never expected to become a leader because I didn't know ​how the program was run. After attending my first meeting as a leader, I realized that The Bridge ​isn't just a meeting on zoom, it's something people look forward to and truly learn from. Since ​becoming a leader, I have been more confident in my public speaking skills, more comfortable ​initiating conversation, and so much more."

– Vera C., Stratford

Thank You!

This program is made possible, in part,

by generous philanthropic partners and donors like you!

If you feel called to invest in the work that Bridge1980 is doing,

and make a gift of any amount, please visit

https://support.bridge1980.com

Thank you, we are grateful for your support!