Mission: To do whatever may be necessary or desirable to assist youth who are on the streets with no one to comfort them, and to assist them in achieving a place in society as fulfilled and productive adults.
Bridge Over Troubled Waters (Bridge) was founded in 1970 to serve runaway, homeless and other youth with nowhere to turn. Since that time, Bridge has evolved into a multi-service agency.
Today, Bridge’s Education and Career Development Program provides self-paced study, tutoring, and individual and group instruction to youth at every grade level to support the goal of earning a GED. In addition to GED preparation, Bridge offers a wide range of job training and skill building opportunities to help prepare youth to gain meaningful employment, and/or enter higher education or advanced training programs. For example, the certificate program in Microsoft Office Suite includes job shadow and internship components where students can use the skills they have been taught in a real-world setting.
Teacher and student relationships are greatly valued at Bridge. Due to our limited enrollment, Bridge is able to offer small classes and a low 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio. In addition to working closely with teachers, students are encouraged to seek assistance from our volunteer tutors as they work at their own pace. The availability of caring and helpful adults in the student-paced design ensures that each student receives one-on-one attention to work through and master challenging subject matter. Bridge provides students the opportunity to study quietly, work in groups, work closely with teachers, access individual tutoring, master core competencies, and earn a GED in a respectful and safe environment.
In addition to academic support, a Job/Career Counselor informs and assists students with college and career options. This counselor invites guest speakers in for college/career exploration and takes students to job fairs, college visits, and work site tours. The counselor is also available to help students with applications and financial aid forms.
ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Bridge enrolls out-of-school youth ages 16-25 who are interested in earning a GED. Students at all grade levels are accepted and there are no income or residency requirements.
Bridge has an open enrollment policy. Students and families are encouraged to visit or call for additional information. Bridge does not require referrals from external agencies, but will work with schools or agencies that wish to refer students.
To begin the intake and assessment procedure call 617-423-9575.