The Bridge of
Northeast Florida is still helping folks cross a river of obstacles.
And now The Bridge, which helps disadvantaged youngsters and their
families, has a little extra "lift."
Last week the group celebrated and showcased a two-year
renovation project at its Springfield main campus -- and lots of
city dignitaries turned out for the festivities.
"I'd like to thank all the dedicated 'bridge builders' here today
-- and thank them for helping us build a better 'Bridge' for our
community," said Davalu "Davy" Parrish, executive director.
The renovations will help the main campus on Pearl Street provide
additional medical services and expanded educational, nutritional
and social programs to Springfield and surrounding communities in
need, Parrish said.
Among those speaking at the dedication were City Council
President Matt Carlucci, City Councilwoman Pat Lockett-Felder,
Jacksonville Sheriff Nat Glover and Duval County Health Department
Director Jeff Goldhagen. Bridge Advisory Board members Delores Barr
Weaver, T. O'Neil Douglas and board member Carol Thompson presented
Master Bridge Builder Scholarships to several young people.
Glover said that The Bridge "is most definitely in the right
place" to serve more than 3,000 children and families a year through
a comprehensive network of programs and services.
On Monday, just a few days after the dedication, The Bridge was
recognized by the Pew Partnership for Civic Change in Washington,
D.C., for participation in its Solutions for America project.
Parrish traveled to the nation's capital to accept the recognition.
For two years, researchers commissioned by the Pew Partnership
have documented The Bridge's problem-solving strategies. The Bridge
is one of 19 programs across the country to be recognized by the Pew
Partnership.
"Communities around the country have identified unique solutions
to some of our most critical community issues," said Suzanne Morse,
executive director of the Pew Partnership. "Helping all young people
make the transition to healthy and productive adulthood demands a
holistic approach that involves families, neighborhoods and the
entire community. The Bridge is a showcase for what works to create
an environment where youth are encouraged and equipped to reach
their full potential."
Jacksonville Mayor John Delaney also lauded the program.
"For more than 20 years, The Bridge has established comprehensive
strategies and provided much-needed services to our city's at-risk
children and families," he said. "Their successful and consistent
approach helps Jacksonville youth succeed when surrounded by some of
life's toughest challenges -- poverty, crime and teen pregnancy. The
Bridge campus exemplifies the commitment we have to creating
suitable living environments and expanding economic opportunities in
Jacksonville's impoverished neighborhoods."
Parrish said the Pew Partnership will allow her staff to share
what they've learned about working with at-risk youths with others
across the country.
"There are no quick fixes when it comes to rebuilding children's
lives and strengthening families," Parrish said. "The research
sponsored by the Pew Partnership has documented how we are meeting
these challenges. We look forward to sharing what we learned with
other communities."
Staff writer John Carter can be reached at 359-4539 or via
e-mail at jcarter.
