Bridges targets bullying in latest campaigns

As a human relations organization, Bridges for a Just Community cultivates programs for kids, young adults and the community at large to encourage diversity, inclusion and a fair and equitable environment. Serving the community for more than 60 years, Bridges has grown from an organization with mainly an interfaith agenda to one that champions equal rights and inclusion, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, physical / mental abilities or economic status.

Creating awareness, building skills and fostering opportunity for a fair and equitable community goes hand in hand with the organization’s ability to respond to changes in society. As more reports surface concerning the devastating, and sometimes fatal, effects of bullying, Bridges has taken an active role in spreading awareness, compassion and tolerance of those who are different. The organization takes the issue seriously, working with the community to educate the public about the effects of bullying and to create a platform for positive change.

Their annual fundraiser, Walk for a Just Community, highlighted the critical issue that bullying has become. Working closely with his family, the walk was dedicated to Sam Denham, a Covington teen who took his own life after being bullied by peers. “It is important to build a ‘human’ relationship with those who are different than you,” says Bridges President & CEO Lynette M. Heard. “In order to create a community that is different, we need to start looking at people differently.”

Programs such as Equity Leadership, JUST Community, Village Schools, ONE Community and more “teach children to be respectful and respected,” says Heard. “These programs encourage youth to understand what it means to build a human, authentic relationship with someone who is different.” Through their work with the Denham family, civic leaders and the community at large, Bridges has become a prominent voice advocating for those who are victims of bullying.

There are lots of ways to become involved with Bridges for Just Community. Bridge Builders actively recruits volunteers to spread the Bridges' mission by teaching volunteers to assist with established programs and training. JUST Community works with ninth through twelfth graders to help them learn how to transform their environments, while ONE Community works with a particular school to provide more help in areas like inclusion and equity. “Bridges gives everyone a place at the table,” says Heard.

Do Good:

•    Volunteer: Become a Bridge Builder to help further the Bridges mission.

•    Get the scoop: Sign up to receive Bridges' e-newsletter for the latest opportunities and events.

•    Donate: to the many programs offered by Bridges for a Just Community.

•    Get educated: by learning all you can or watching videos like these.

By Deidra Wiley Necco