Celebrating the 22nd Annual
EMPOWERMENT AWARDS
Wednesday, May 14th
Derryfield Country Club
Manchester, NH
Spotlights Maine News
At Bridge Crossing and Bridge Crossing Academy, belonging and inclusivity is alive and well. We incorporated a new program this past year called the “Choose Love” Program. This program embraces our agency mission of “A Place to Belong”. We prioritize safety, dependability and kindness as our practice. By teaching core values like Courage, Gratitude, Forgiveness, and Compassion in Action, we're nurturing future adults who instinctively embrace inclusion and recognize the inherent worth in every person These values aren't just character traits, they're essential building blocks for creating a community where differences are celebrated rather than merely tolerated
P.J. Woodard Celebrates 10 years at Stetson Ranch
P J celebrated her 10-year work anniversary at Stetson Ranch this January
“Choose Love” teaches us how to respond with love in any situation by focusing on four core values: Courage, Gratitude, Forgiveness, and Compassion in Action. We kicked off our new program with inviting some guest speakers to share stories that embodied the heart of the “Choose Love” program. A few new program activities include "Fill Your Bucket", where students show kindness by saying positive things to their peers, or filling a “Gratitude Jar,” where we list all the things we are currently grateful for Our upcoming project involves painting rocks with positive affirmations to place around our community brightening someone’s day upon discovery The students have been doing a wonderful job developing their coping skills and communicating their feelings with one another–realizing kindness is also something you choose
teachersfor inspiring,guiding, and makinga lastingimpact everysingleday
Throughout the past decade, P.J. has been a steady and compassionate presence, offering unwavering support to everyone connected to the program. Her ability to foster strong relationships, share her warmth and humor, and guide our youth in developing healthy coping strategies has made a lasting impact. From introducing creative stress-relief outlets to building connections with a local farm where young people gain hands-on experience and even part-time work
P.J. always goes the extra mile. The bonds she’s built don’t fade. Former participants frequently call just to say hello and they always ask for P.J. Her dedication, empathy, and unique talents are truly irreplaceable, and we’re incredibly grateful for her years of service
