Programs & Initiatives
At The Bridge Builder Collective, our programs are designed to meet individuals and families where they are while creating pathways for long-term growth and opportunity. Through mentorship, education, workforce development, and community-centered initiatives, we work alongside our partners to strengthen communities and support the next generation.
Below is an overview of our current programs and initiatives, along with the impact we’ve made since our founding.
Navigators Mentoring Program
(formerly Omega Lamplighters)
Grades 6-11 | March - December | Free Program
The Navigators Mentoring Program provides consistent, relationship-based mentorship for middle and high school students. Through interactive classroom sessions, experiential learning, community service, and accountability-focused discussions, mentees are supported as they navigate academic, social, and personal challenges—including chronic absenteeism.
The program emphasizes commitment, consistency, and growth, while maintaining a balance of learning and fun in a supportive environment.
Impact to Date (Since 2024):
📊 65+ students and families served
Bridge Forward & Dr. Marvin Lott Scholarship Program
The Bridge Builder Collective’s Bridge Forward Program and Dr. Marvin Lott Scholarship Program work together to support students from preparation to persistence. Bridge Forward provides students with mentoring, leadership development, academic support, and college and career readiness experiences that help them build confidence, character, and a clear sense of direction. As students transition into postsecondary education, the Dr. Marvin Lott Scholarship Program helps remove financial barriers through multi-year scholarship support while reinforcing accountability, encouragement, and long-term success. Together, these programs create a continuum of support designed to empower students to pursue higher education, navigate life’s challenges, and build meaningful futures for themselves and their communities.
Impact to Date (Projected by May 2026):
💰 $23,000 awarded to 9 students
STEM Learning Initiatives
Our STEM initiatives provide hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and expose students to future career pathways in science, technology, engineering, and math. Through strategic partnerships and immersive programming, we create opportunities for students to learn, explore, and imagine what’s possible.
A cornerstone of this work is our Geek Squad Academy, presented in partnership with Best Buy.
The Geek Squad Academy is a free, two-day STEM camp designed to introduce students to technology, problem-solving, and innovation through interactive, hands-on activities. The inaugural camp was held in 2025 at The Bethlehem Center, providing students with meaningful exposure to STEM concepts in an engaging and supportive environment.
Impact to Date:
🧪 120+ students participated in Geek Squad Academy
Community Outreach & Support
Our Community Outreach & Support initiatives focus on meeting immediate needs while supporting families during critical moments throughout the year. These efforts are rooted in care, dignity, and responsiveness to the realities many families face.
Through initiatives such as our Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway, we help ensure students are equipped and ready for the school year. During the Thanksgiving holiday season, we also supported 25 families by providing $50 Food City gift cards, helping ease the burden of holiday meals.
These initiatives reflect our commitment to showing up for families in practical, meaningful ways—when and where support is needed most.
Impact to Date:
🎒 250+ backpacks and school supply kits distributed
🛒 25 families supported with holiday food assistance
Bridge to Opportunity
Clearing Barriers. Creating Access to Work.
Bridge to Opportunity is a workforce support initiative focused on helping individuals overcome employment barriers caused by fines, such as driver’s license–related fines or fees, that prevent them from securing or maintaining employment.
In partnership with the American Job Center, The Bridge Builder Collective provides targeted assistance to help resolve qualifying fines that stand in the way of employment opportunities. For many individuals, the inability to drive legally can limit job options, delay hiring, or result in lost income — even when a job is already available.
By addressing these fines at the moment they matter most, Bridge to Opportunity helps individuals regain mobility, remove legal barriers, and move into employment more quickly. This approach supports faster workforce entry, improved income stability, and increased participation in the local economy.
Individuals seeking employment support or eligibility guidance are directed through the American Job Center, where career services and referrals for Bridge to Opportunity assistance are coordinated.
👉 Click below to connect with the American Job Center and explore workforce services and support options.
Our Impact at a Glance
Impact reflects cumulative outcomes since our founding in 2023.
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🎓 65+ students mentored
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💰 $23,000 awarded in scholarships
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🧪 120+ students engaged in STEM programming
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👷 12+ individuals supported through workforce development
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🏠 400+ families supported through community outreach
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, our focus remains on deepening impact, strengthening partnerships, and creating programs that respond to the real needs of the communities we serve. We are committed to learning, evolving, and building sustainable initiatives that create lasting change.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting our programs or learning more about partnership opportunities?
We’d love to connect. Complete the form below to contact us and/or become a supporter.