IGNITE YOUR JOURNEY TO PERSONAL GROWTH BY GIVING BACK!
Our Mission is to empower nontraditional students by giving them a “ lift off” or “ bridge” to further their education with targeted financial assistance and meaningful relationships of mentorships. We are dedicated to fostering the discipline and academic excellence of students that strive for lifelong learning and personal growth.
YOUR PAST IS WATER UNDER THE BRIDGE!
Feeling like you’re at a crossroad, feeling stuck, wrestling with self-doubt, overwhelmed by uncertainty? The fire within you is undeniable, and we are ready to BRIDGE with you 2 be Better. We are here to assist with financial constraints and give mentor support as you turn your educational goals and dreams into a reality.
Student who did not go to college within first year of high school graduation
Student who works full time
Student who is under financial constraints limiting them from attending college full time
Those who enroll one or more years after graduating high school or those who attend college on a part-time basis are considered nontraditional by NCES. Modern defining characteristics include social traits and age, with most studies agreeing that undergraduates age 25 or older are classified as nontraditional. In the US, gender was a defining characteristic of nontraditional students, with women particularly older women being viewed as unusual.
CREATED FOR THE NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS
Opportunity
Launch
Scholarship
Students who need assistance with their first year of college financially and with guidance of a mentor to launch them forward in the right educational direction.
Vertical
Shift
Scholarship
For the student who wants to attend school full-time but is only able to take 1-2 classes per semester due to financial constraints. The scholarship will build a bridge with financial support.
Rapid
Rise
Scholarship
For the student already in school and needs immediate financial assistance to complete their semester or remaining school course load.
Become a Bridge2Better Mentor
Mentors provide personalized guidance to Bridge2Better Scholars. This includes academic, professional, and emotional support to help Scholars succeed in college and their careers. Mentors also have access to the Bridge2Better Network for additional resources.
Mentor Responsibilities
Communicate regularly with your Scholar to build a strong relationship.
Advise on academic, financial, social/emotional, and career planning.
Help Scholars with career readiness, including resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and interview preparation.
Share your Scholar's successes and challenges with Bridge2Better staff.
Attend Bridge2Better events and mentor training sessions.
How to Become a Mentor
-Complete a brief phone interview with Bridge2Better staff-
Sign the Bridge2Better Mentor Agreement
Become a Bridge2Better Volunteer
If mentoring isn't for you, you can still make a big impact as a Bridge2Better Volunteer. We appreciate any help you can offer.
Ways to Help as a Volunteer
Event Assistance: Help organize and run fundraisers, workshops, and community events.
Promotion: Spread the word about Bridge2Better through social media and local events.
Administrative Support: Assist with office tasks and data entry.
Fundraising: Join our fundraising efforts to support our programs.
Special Projects: Help with specific projects that match your skills and interests.
Every bit of help counts, and we value all contributions. Your support helps our Scholars succeed and thrive.
How to Become a Volunteer
-Complete a brief phone interview with Bridge2Better staff-
Participate in a volunteer orientation session
Join us at Bridge2Better and make a difference in the lives of our Scholars. Thank you for your support and willingness to help!
Becoming a mentor or volunteer for the Bridge2Better Foundation, which focuses on supporting non-traditional students through innovative scholarship programs, offers numerous positive attributes:
WHY TO GET INVOLVED
PERSONAL FULFILLMENT
Experience the joy and satisfaction of making a tangible difference in someone's life. Contribute to the personal and academic growth of non-traditional students.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
Enhance your mentoring, coaching, and leadership skills. Develop communication and interpersonal skills by interacting with diverse individuals.
PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
Expand your professional network by connecting with other mentors, volunteers, and professionals. Gain experience that can be valuable in your career and community.
CULTURE AWARENESS
Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by non-traditional students. Increase your cultural competence by working with students from various backgrounds.
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about education and community service. Build connections that could lead to future collaborations or career opportunities.
PERSONAL GROWTH
Reflect on your own educational and career journey, gaining insights and inspiration from the students you mentor. Foster a sense of purpose and direction in your own life by giving back to the community.
COMMUNITY
IMPACT
Play a crucial role in breaking down barriers to education and fostering a more inclusive academic environment. Contribute to the community by helping to create a more educated and skilled workforce.
EMPOWERMENT
Empower students to achieve their educational and career goals. Help build students' confidence and self-esteem by providing guidance and support.
CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING
Engage in innovative thinking to help students navigate unconventional paths to scholarships and higher education. Develop creative strategies to address unique challenges faced by non-traditional students.
RECOGNITION AND GRATITUDE
Receive recognition from the Bridge2Better Foundation. Experience gratitude from the students and their families whose lives you have positively impacted.
EDUCATIONAL INSIGHT
Stay informed about trends and challenges in the education sector, particularly concerning non-traditional students. Learn about innovative scholarship models and alternative educational pathways.