MISSION The mission of The Bridges of Light Foundation is to build bridges to a brighter future by nurturing, mentoring and educating at-risk Central Florida youth. We believe that three important needs must be met in order for a child to be able to succeed in life: Nurturing, Guidance, and Education. Our three-prong approach to meeting these needs: Nurturing | Our ‘closets of care’ at local schools offer clothing, food, and other supplies for children to take home. Mentoring | Our mission is to help children succeed and build confidence by developing life skills and offer guidance as they grow. Tutoring | Bridges of Light has created a unique way to offer academic support by providing a program with one-on-one tutoring.
INVOLVED MENTOR We are looking for volunteers who are interested in making a difference in the lives of the children we serve. Mentor a child for one hour a week or when your schedule allows. OPPORTUNITIES Guest speaking opportunities are open to those who would like to make an impact in the lives of our students. From every day life lessons to career exploration, our students love to be inspired by you and your company’s mission. VOLUNTEER Help organize or manage our Closet of Care. Donate new and gently used items such as clothing, books, toys, or furniture. Volunteer to deliver food, clothing and necessities to families in need Join our event planning or meeting of the minds committee Host a family or child for Easter, Thanksgiving or Christmas. FUNDRAISER Host casual day at work, plan a 5K, collect food for the holidays and deliver to families in need. Collect backpacks or school supplies. SPONSOR Sponsor one of our annual fundraising events. By helping us co er event costs, your sponsorship ensures all event proceeds will go directly to helping children and families in need throughout the community.
OPPORTUNITY
Emmie Society
Introducing, The Bridges of Light Foundation Emmie Society! The Emmie Society gives companies an opportunity to become an integral part of The Bridges of Light Foundation and recognizes the company’s philanthropic initiatives towards helping our foundation continue our mission. - Emmie Society is a 10 year commitment club - Members pledge a 10 year commitment of $10,000 year - The Emmie Society’s first founding club members will be recognized at the September 16th Players Ball For information on becoming a member please contact Stacey Papp at (407) 758-8587 or emails us at info@bridgesoflightfoundation.org
EDUCATE
EMMIE
MOTIVATE MENTOR INSPIRE ENCOURAGE
VILLAGE
Our Educational Tutoring Program is in its 14th year at Great Oaks Village!
GOV is a residential foster group home for children ages 6 to 18+ who have been removed from their homes by the State of Florida due to abuse, neglect or abandonment. Children are placed here by the Department of Children and Family Services and Community Based Care of Central Florida. The Bridges of Light Foundation offers these children continued education with our Educational Tutoring Program (ETP), support, and mentoring. Over the years we have witnessed lives changed, relationships built and achievements reached.
RESULTS In first full year of program, overall GPA increased by 10% Approximately 15% of children received a 4.0 GPA. Approximately 25% of children had GPA of 3.0 or higher 25+ Children from our program have enrolled in college!
MIDDLE SCHOOL
In August of 2013, after assessing the needs of the middle schools in our area, we partnered with Carver Middle School in Orange County to provide our services to students in need. Carver Middle School is a unique school that grabbed our attention from the startling statistics from the 2012-2013 school year with a school grade of D,
INITIATIVES STUDENT MENTORING
149 suspensions, 42 expulsions and 61 arrests. With new adminstrative leadership, a
GUEST SPEAKING
motivated team of teachers and community partners like Orlando After-School All-
CLOSET OF CARE
Stars, Bridges of Light and the Heart of Florida United Way, Carver Middle School is on a positive and renewed track!
ATTENDANCE INCENTIVE INITIATIVE