Building Bridges Compassionate Leadership
Uplifting Lives Through Our Board
The synergy of talents found here allows each trustee to weigh in on critical decisions, so we can make a difference where it truly matters.
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Providing Support and Direction
The board ensures every operational detail aligns with our focus on helping at-risk or juvenile populations.
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Collaborative Partnership Building
Our leaders are invested in fundraising ventures and innovative solutions that reflect our dedication to improving lives.
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Dedicated to Improving Lives
The board integrates life-skills training into our programs to ensure the youth we serve remain our top priority.
Driving Positive Change
Harnessing Communication For Progress
Clear and consistent communication sits at the heart of everything we do at Building Bridges. This crucial element not only keeps the entire organization in sync but also fortifies our committee structures, ensuring everyone understands the current goals and next steps.
On a day-to-day level, we use a variety of channels to keep everyone involved. Our staff works closely with the Community-Based Services division in the Montgomery County Juvenile Court system to make sure our programming meets real-time needs.
Leading With Action
The President’s Role in Empowering Change
At the helm of the board sits President, Judge Gerald Parker, whose leadership and vision guide Building Bridges to new heights. His dedication to the children in our programs and to the improvement of our community ensures that every decision we make aligns with our core values.
Whether we’re hosting a local conference to share best practices or revamping internal strategies to maximize efficiency, Judge Parker keeps a steady hand on the wheel. Through his guidance, we remain committed to bridging gaps and leveling the playing field for those in need.
This sense of purpose extends far beyond strategic planning. By collaborating with local business leaders, educational institutions, and government bodies, he ensures Building Bridges remains a vital partner in community development. His role as president exemplifies how vision, empathy, and collaboration can unify an entire board behind one profound goal: the transformation of children’s lives.
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Opportunities For Growth
As president, he meets regularly with staff, stakeholders, and committees to find areas where we can grow.
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Committed To Bridging Gaps
He champions equity across all aspects of the organization, recognizing that at-risk youth deserve a fair shot at success.
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Collaborates Within The Community
Judge Parker actively coordinates with other board members, forging strong relationships within the community.
Behind Building Bridges
Meet The Board of Directors
Our board of directors includes accomplished professionals and civic leaders who lend their expertise and oversight to every aspect of the organization. You’ll find a range of backgrounds—law, finance, education, and social services—united by a passion for creating positive outcomes for our youth.
Each Person Is Bound By a Shared Belief:
When we stand together in service of youth, we can bring forth positive outcomes that transform not only individual lives but the entire community of Dayton, Ohio.
Luigi Dodieu, Managing Director
A Supervisor in Montgomery Juvenile Court, has over 20 years of experience mentoring at-risk youth. He created programs like a cognitive behavior curriculum and the Adopt-A-Kid Christmas Party.
Judge Gerald Parker, President
Judge Parker serves the community in and out of the courtroom. With a background as a juvenile magistrate and prosecutor he is dedicated to changing the lives of youth.
Al Pierce, Emeritus
Emeritus
Angela Roberts, Secretary
Named Probation Staff of the Year in 2024, with a Bachelor's from Miami University, specializes in mental health interventions. She volunteers with Building Bridges to support at-risk youth.
Judge Walter Rice
Emeritus
Dan Baker
Dayton Police Department Lieutenant (Ret.) Commander Violent Crime Bureau and having been associated with Building Bridges since 1982 he is committed to helping our youth make positive life choices.
Brittni Long
Criminal Justice Planning Administrator for the Ohio Department of Youth Services. She created the HAALO Program and volunteers with the Montgomery County Prevention Coalition.
Lindsay Birnbaum, Director
Worked with Building Bridges since 2005 in various roles, currently as Specialized Outcomes Manager. A devoted wife, mother, and soccer coach, she is committed to creating a better future for youth.
Josh Moulton
Joshua Moulton, a Sales Account Manager and MBA candidate at the University of Dayton, is committed to family and community. He supports Building Bridges by organizing classes and meals for at-risk youth.
Byron Kentner, Treasurer
A CPA for over 40 years, retired in 2019 after 30 years. He’s been a Vandalia-Butler resident since 1979 and serves on multiple boards, including Building Bridges.
William (Bill) Draugelis
Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s from Wright State, has spent his life in the local community. He served as the first Executive Director of Building Bridges and worked 25 years in Juvenile Court.
Forever In Our Hearts
Our Honorary Board Member
Ron Reigelsperger was perhaps the first probation officer to work under the direction of Building Bridges. He realized that traditional, across a desk supervision, was not sufficient to meet the needs of many of our local, disadvantaged youth.
As the supervisor of the program, he recruited staff with heart and encouraged them to be more like camp counselors as opposed to traditional officers, giving many within the organization their first chance to make a difference in the lives of youth.
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.
Visit our Get Involved page to begin.
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.