Bridging The Gap
To Success
Building Bridges - Dayton, OH
Subscribe to our newsletterFunds Raised
Since 2001
At-Risk Youth
Lives Impacted
Youth Enrolled DO
NOT Reoffend
Challenging The Status Quo
We Don’t Just Work With At-Risk Youth — We Challenge the System That Fails Them
Every day, young people in our community are pushed toward incarceration instead of support, isolation instead of healing. Building Bridges exists to disrupt that cycle. We fight for equity, dignity, and real second chances.
Students experiencing homelessness are 87% more likely to drop out than their stably housed peers.
The crisis without us
Without Programs Like Building Bridges, These are the Outcomes...
In Montgomery County, weapon-related referrals increased from 2018 to 2024.
The Ohio juvenile detention rate exceeds the national average by 65%.
Our Impact, Their Future
Here's What Happens When we Invest in our Youth Instead
We believe that every young person deserves a chance to grow, heal, and thrive. Through consistent mentorship and real-world skill-building, we help youth rewrite their stories.
73% of youth in the program did NOT re-offend within the first year.
96% of youth were enrolled in school at the time of program completion.
Our mission is to redirect the lives of kids who need a second chance to make better choices, turn their lives around and find lasting success.
About Building Bridges
Creating Brighter Futures
We are dedicated to empowering at-risk youth by providing the support, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive. Our mission is to guide young people through life’s challenges, helping them build resilience, make better decisions, and unlock their full potential.
Through our compassionate approach and unwavering commitment, we strive to create a future where every young person has the opportunity to shine.
Our Vision In Action: Transforming Ideas Into Impact
How We Bring Our Vision To Life
Real World Scenarios
By simulating actual situations participants may face, we provide them with hands-on experience and problem-solving skills that are directly applicable to their personal and professional lives.
Relationship Development
Through mentorship and collaboration, we help participants build lasting relationships that support their journey. These relationships create a foundation of trust and mutual support
Encouragement
By providing positive reinforcement, guidance, and a supportive environment, we help individuals overcome challenges and stay motivated and build confidence throughout their journey.
How Our Programs Make A Difference
Driving Change
We’re dedicated to driving positive change and advocating for those who need it. Building Bridges is essential to fostering a supportive community where young people can thrive and reach their full potential.
Goal Oriented
Goal Oriented
We help youth set real, achievable goals—whether it’s finishing a school term, securing a job, or rebuilding trust at home.
Short-Term Impact
Short-Term Impact
From day one, our programs offer stability, structure, and positive engagement that help youth begin to shift
their mindset.
Long-Term Impact
Long-Term Impact
Our approach is built for sustainability—fostering lasting behavioral change, emotional growth, and healthier life choices.
Empowerment
Empowerment
We don’t just support youth—we equip them with the tools to advocate for themselves and shape
their futures.
Our Approach
Transformaing Lives, One Step At A Time
We’re dedicated to driving positive change and advocating for those who need it. Building Bridges is essential to fostering a supportive community where young people can thrive and reach their full potential.
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WORK THERAPY
Our Work Therapy Groups offer our youth structure and discipline, the opportunity to learn new skills, and a chance to give back to their community.
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SUPPORTIVE STAFF
Our board provides not only mentorship and guidance but also a safe space for young people to grow, learn, and reach their
full potential
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EVENTS/ACTIVITES
We engage our youth in a variety of sports, programs, and events that broaden their experience and promote interaction with people in the community.
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COLLABORATIONS
By partnering with organizations, local leaders, and industry experts, we amplify our efforts and expand opportunities for those we serve.
Support The Future Of Our Youth
Volunteer, Donate, Share:
Every Action Counts
We believe that everyone has a role to play in building a brighter future for our youth. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, your involvement helps provide the support and opportunities young people need to succeed.
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Volunteer Impact
Offering mentorship, life-skills coaching, and guidance that helps youth build resilience and make better life choices.
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How Donating Changes Lives
95% of all donations go directly to supporting our programs, events, and providing youth with the tools they need.
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Building A Stronger Community
We work together to create a supportive network that empowers youth to build healthier relationships.
Empower At-Risk Youth
Help Create Brighter Futures
Your support can make a life-changing difference for young people in need. By donating to Building Bridges, you help provide mentorship, resources, and opportunities that empower at-risk youth to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.
Ohio spends approximately $202,502 annually to incarcerate each juvenile offender, ranking 10th highest among 46 states surveyed. In contrast, the state allocates only about $12,102 per student for education. This disparity underscores the need for investment in community-based programs over incarceration.
A Mission Rooted In Hope
Decades Later, the Mission Hasn’t Changed — Only the Scale of the Impact.
Since day one, our work has been about showing up for young people the world too often gives up on. What started with a conversation in a single neighborhood now reaches hundreds of youth every year — helping them reclaim their futures.
Built on belief
Over 50 Years of Advocating For Our Youth— And More To Come
That article was more than just a story — it was a statement. A promise. That someone was paying attention. That someone cared. That someone believed there had to be a better way.
The kids have changed. The times have changed. But the mission? That’s never wavered.
Jaylin Hart
Former Building Bridges Participant
Bill Daniels
Owner of Dayton's Original Pizza Factory
"To be honest, it’s hard to sum up. I started with Building Bridges at 15—just an angry, misunderstood kid on the westside with family problems and court involvement. But they never gave up on me."
"I've been involved with Building Bridges all the way back to 1986...Building Bridges programs have a really soft spot in my heart, and I know the kind of good work that the organization has been doing for the last five decades."
James Recob
Owner of Centerville Crossfit
"By partnering with the Building Bridges Program in Montgomery County, we’re able to help at-risk youth develop not only athletic skills, but also the confidence and resilience they need to thrive."
Nick Presley
Member of Civitan International
Blair Mitchell
"We are big fans of Building Bridges, we appreciate and respect what they do in the Community and events they hold that always bring smiles to the faces of youth and families. We try to support them as much as we can and we hope others try to do the same!"
Mike King
Upcoming Events
A Second Chance, A New Beginning
We stand alongside youth facing significant challenges, giving them a second chance to make better choices and build lasting success. We engage youth and community members in planning and decision-making, ensuring our efforts are relevant and impactful.
Empathy
This is crucial for understanding the needs of the community you serve and developing solutions that are truly helpful.
Collaboration
Collaborating drives change by pooling resources, sharing expertise, and creating solutions that are more sustainable.
Empowerment
Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to empowering youth to be more resilient, build confidence, and develop essential skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is Building Bridges Governed?
Our leadership structure consists of a Board of Directors, alongside various committees and an advisory board. These teams work together to set strategic priorities, manage finances, and oversee day-to-day operations. Their collective goal is to ensure Building Bridges remains transparent, effective, and aligned with its core mission to serve youth in need.
Who Makes Up The Building Bridges Board Of Directors?
The Board of Directors includes professionals from diverse backgrounds, such as judges, community leaders, and nonprofit advocates. Key positions include the President (Judge Gerald Parker), Vice President (Judge Walter H. Rice), Treasurer (Byron L. Kentner), and Secretary (Brittini Long). Other board members bring additional expertise in areas like finance, law, and youth advocacy.
What Types Of Programs Does Building Bridges Offer?
We provide a wide range of day-to-day community-based interventions, such as life-skills training, mentorship, and educational support. These programs are designed to foster self-esteem, teach conflict resolution, and encourage a sense of responsibility among participants.
How Can I Support Or Get Involved With Building Bridges?
Your involvement can take many forms:
- Donating: Financial contributions help us maintain programs, fund expansion, and provide necessary resources to the youth we serve.
- Volunteering: We welcome individuals who wish to share their time, talents, and expertise.
- Partnering: Businesses, other nonprofits, and educational institutions can collaborate with us on joint initiatives or sponsor events.
- Spreading the Word: Sharing our mission and success stories within your network can elevate our impact.
What Role Do Partnerships And Collaborations Play?
Partnerships are essential. We collaborate with small businesses, other nonprofits, educational institutions, and local government units. This network allows us to share resources, generate new ideas, and create a broader safety net for children and teenagers who need structured, supportive interventions.
Can I Request More Information Before Deciding to Volunteer Or Donate?
Absolutely. We encourage you to reach out through our Contact page or call our main office. Our team is ready to provide additional details on programming, leadership structure, financial stewardship, or any other questions you may have.
What Makes Building Bridges Unique Compared To Other Youth-focused Nonprofits?
Our holistic approach stands out. We combine day-to-day mentorship, life-skills training, and close collaboration with the juvenile court system to address the whole child. With guidance from an active and diverse Board of Directors, plus committees focused on continuous improvement, we ensure each young person has every opportunity to succeed and thrive.