BRIDGES unites and inspires diverse young people to become confident and courageous leaders committed to community transformation.
Through Connect, Collaborate, and Change, the three levels of Bridge Builders programming, youth in grades 6-12 learn to step outside their comfort zones and seek out diverse perspectives. They also hone crucial real-world skills like communication, problem-solving, and decision-making as they explore effective citizenship and social responsibility.
Bridge Builders programs don’t stop at diversity appreciation and leadership development—they challenge youth to apply those skills to make meaningful and lasting impacts on schools, neighborhoods, and city through the Youth Action Center, councils, and boards.
At BRIDGES, we believe youth aren’t just “the leaders of tomorrow.” They’re powerful agents for positive change today.
Since the early 1920s, BRIDGES has been engaging with youth to create real social change. Explore all the steps our organization has taken over the years.
Young people are born with creativity and passion to lead. BRIDGES has worked with thousands of students to unlock that potential and activate new generations of leaders across Memphis.
Support our work*Data from 2022-2023