Crisis As A Catalyst For Change
At Bridges United, we have three core beliefs:
Everyone deserves a chance at what the world has to offer.
Everyone deserves to be respected and heard.
Everyone deserves to feel safe, have hope, and be loved.
You can overcome anything that gets in your way. Unfortunately, the right tools have been historically inaccessible to those at the whim of our current crisis system and in particular, members of the underserved community that is disproportionately BIPOC and LGBTQ+. We’re here to change that.
How do we define “crisis”?
It’s simple. We don’t. We let you define it. Everyone’s crisis is different and everyone’s crisis is valid. We provide a space for everyone to be accepted and embraced without shame.
Breaking the cycle
Seeing crisis as a potential catalyst for change, we’re working to break the cycle of hospitalization, incarceration, and homelessness. By providing a safe and inclusive home-like environment, we’re empowering individuals and communities through self-determination and resilience to help de-escalate situations of crisis.
A clinical approach to crisis intervention has an important place, but we’re working to fill a gap in the system - one a non-clinical, person-centered approach can fill.
Because sometimes, what you need most is for someone to listen.
Our Mission
We empower individuals and communities by providing safe and inclusive environments that promote self-determination, resilience, wellness, and a sense of community using a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach. We believe crisis can be a catalyst for change and that it is never too late to break the cycle of hospitalization, incarceration, and homelessness.
Our Values
Self-efficacy
You are not a client, you are a guest. You know yourself best and are free to take time for yourself and come and go as you please. The tools are available to you, what you do with your stay is up to you.
Safety
Growth can’t happen without security and confidentiality. Be yourself here without fear of judgment, and know that your safety is our top priority. We take every step necessary to ensure a safe and inclusive environment.
Inclusivity
We foster an inclusive environment that’s safe for everyone to receive the support they need, especially members of the underserved community that is disproportionately BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
Community
Whether it’s with our staff, our guests, or our communities, we do better when we work as a team. We’re here to lift you up. We actively work to make connections with the community to provide you with the best resources.
A Note From Our Founder
“I grew up in constant crisis with nowhere, and no one to turn to. Until one day, someone reached out to me in a way I can't explain.
They listened, supported me, and walked me through the crisis. It wasn’t easy and it took a community, but I got through it using support, love, wellness, and a lot of self-affirmations.
I look around the community and there is proof that crisis is transformational. What I needed was someone who was willing to accept me, respect me, and listen to what I had to say. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard, to feel loved, and to love themselves. That’s what Bridges United offers. That’s love, the community needs more love.”
– Patrick Ellis
You’re Safe Here.
If you or someone you love is seeking support through a time of crisis, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us today.