Finding My Path: How Bridges Changed Everything

Before I found Mona and Bridges, I struggled immensely—not just financially, but mentally. My mental health was in disarray, I was stuck in a toxic, abusive relationship, and I had no support system. I felt trapped, spinning the tires of my life and getting nowhere, with no real confidence or motivation to do anything about it.

At the time of my first interview, I didn’t fully realize what I would gain from Bridges, but I held onto hope. I desperately wanted to be shown a different path than the one I was on. It’s remarkable how much your life and perspective can change in such a short time—that’s exactly what Bridges has done for me.

It has given me knowledge I didn’t have before, from impulse control to recognizing individuals in my own community who exploit vulnerable people for profit. I also learned about the different registers of language. One of the most valuable lessons I’ll hold onto from this program is abstract thinking. I now realize that the reason I felt so stuck was because my circumstances prevented me from seeing the bigger picture and creating a constructive plan. I was trapped by the urgency of immediate challenges.

Bridges has given me the confidence and support system I so desperately needed. I can’t thank them enough for the knowledge and self-empowerment they have provided. Because of Mona and Bridges, I have enrolled in school to become a registered nurse. I’ve gone back to therapy and have been consistently taking my medications to be the best version of myself. They’ve also given me hope and a stronger faith, not just in humanity, but in God as well. I truly believe He put me on this path and wanted me and my classmates to meet Mona and connect with this Godsend of a program for a reason.

I will close with a quote that perfectly describes Bridges:

“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.”