As you walk through the doors of The Bridge Academy and Community Center, the walls are alive with photos of children, parents, grandparents—all sharing in the story of our community. For two decades, The Bridge has been a sanctuary for Coatesville youth, nurturing a legacy of empowerment, connection, and hope. These walls hold stories like that of the Jones family.

Ms. Denise, a devoted grandmother raising her six grandsons alone, came to The Bridge to sign them up for our afterschool programs. Ms. Autumn spent time with the family, getting to know their unique needs, and building a support system for Ms. Denise who bravely navigated housing instability, health issues, and family challenges.

Ben Jones, the second eldest (18) and self-appointed parent to his young siblings, periodically attended The Bridge programs over seven (7) years. Two years ago, he came back, sullen, and sad. Ms. Autumn was the only person he interacted with and felt he could trust. He was reluctant to meet the new faces (staff and volunteers) but felt a loving connection. Ben became a frequent visitor and then a volunteer, helping staff in the kitchen and tutoring our elementary and secondary students, including his younger brothers.

Over time, The Bridge became his second home. With encouragement and guidance, Ben began to take on responsibilities, working alongside our team in the kitchen and tutoring younger students. Ben was hired as one of five interns this summer and was recognized for his notable growth in the role, leading to an invitation for him to return as a Fall intern. He proudly recalls how challenging the summer was and how much he grew personally and professionally. Ben loved socializing with the kids, working in the kitchen, and managing recreation activities. He shared--

“Being looked up to is not something that I really experience at home... being a role model to all these younger kids especially as a teenager I feel as though I’m making a good impact on them, giving them a positive role model and steering them toward the right direction instead of having them out on the streets doing whatever.”