What We Do

Housing

• Bridges allows eligible students to live in one of our 20 one-bedroom apartments.

• Rent is calculated on a sliding scale at 30% of income, plus utilities

• Students may live in the apartments until they graduate high school, and can remain until they are 21 if they are in higher education

School Assistance

Our partnership with the Norman Public School system allows us to provide school supplies, tutoring, and even sports or other extracurricular supplies at no charge to the student.

Career Coaching

Career Coaches are caring adults who support Bridges students as they navigate school and make career and personal decisions. The Career Coaching program pairs students and mentors based on their interests and expectations of the program. Our solid community support has made us successful in recruiting business people who are trained to guide without judging or parenting. They commit to connecting at least once a week with their student for lunch, dinner, an activity, or a phone call, and to setting up at least two job shadows. They undergo background checks, sign confidentiality agreements, agree to limitations on student gifts, and learn how to arrange appointments for students without labeling them as a Bridges participant. They also participate in monthly activities that include all coaches and students.

Because career coaches are often the only people in our students’ lives who give them one-on-one attention, they become the first person the students call to show off prom dresses, report on the outcome of a test, or celebrate over a new job. Through example they teach cooking, budgeting, and parenting. They become trusted advisors, financial guideposts, and moral compasses. If you are interested in finding out more about career coaching, fill out the Coach Application, or click here and request for more information.

Jim Agar Bootstrap Scholarship

Founded by Norman businessman Jim Agar, this $2,000 scholarship is given to any senior who has exhibited the determination to pursue higher education. To date, Mr. Agar has raised over $100,000.00 for this purpose.

Lifeskills

Weekly meetings on topics such as leadership, networking, self-defense, and how to interview for jobs.
Absher Savings Account

Named in memory of Kay Absher, who was instrumental in starting the Bridges program, this is an incentive-based savings account that pays students for grades, attendance, participation, and steps towards college. Payable only upon high school graduation.