We are a non-profit organization seeking to network people and resources for families in Crow Wing County and the bordering communities.
Vision
Bridges of Hope links families to community supports and resources. It creates partnerships within the broader community to help strengthen, stabilize and support families in the Lakes area, sending a message of hope and empowering families to thrive.
Guiding Principles
Christ calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Families can be strengthened by formal and informal support.
Faith communities are in a unique role of offering relationships to those who are in crisis.
Healing happens best in the context of community.
Having an active faith makes a difference in a person's life.
We respect diversity, individual needs, beliefs and values.
We will be fiscally responsible to our donors, funding sources and the community.
areas of focus...
Identifying resources & creating partnerships with area churches, businesses & community services to meet the needs of families.
Providing support & education services focusing on strengthening and empowering families, parents & relationships.
Arranging mental health services for those needing an immediate assessment or who face a hardship paying standard health care professional rates.
Connecting a volunteer/mentor support network to families in their time of need.
Organizational Structure
Bridges of Hope is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation incorporated in 2002.
The Advisory Board is made up of community members from the Brainerd Lakes area, representing education, human services, law enforcement, and faith communities. The Board provides leadership and oversight to the ongoing formation of Bridges of Hope in planning, budgeting, fundraising, and community networking.
Board Members
Charles Black Lance
Lanny Scearcy
Bill Brekken
Mark Ronnei
Chris Close
Don Ryan
Steve Gatton
Pastor Andy Smith
Lynn Houle
Pat Sharbonda
Eric Klang
Maureen Pickar
Tammy Meier
Pastor Tom Wiegand (chair)
Patrice O'Leary
Sharri Westin
Mark Oehrlein
Staff
Tami Lueck, Executive Director
Kassie Heisserer, Associate Director
Melissa Boeder, Resource Specialist
Holly Usherwood, Financial Advocate
