2022 Annual Report

Smiling young latin woman with dark hair in red dress working in department store

2022 Annual Report

Facts and Figures

The Power of a Job

We all want to reach our potential in life, which often begins with a meaningful job where our unique talents can shine. For young people who receive or received special education services, however, landing that first job can seem difficult or even impossible. That’s why Bridges from School to Work (Bridges) was created in 1989.

Bridges matches the interests and abilities of young people with disabilities to the needs of employers. Yet the real impact extends far beyond just landing a job. Bridges helps young adults with disabilities keep and progress on the job. Bridges instills character, builds confidence, and steers young adults toward a future filled with possibilities. In 12 major U.S. cities, Bridges unlocks the potential of young people with disabilities, transforming lives through the power of a job.

Since 1989, Bridges has worked with
26,000 Youth
5,400 Employers
900 High schools

Bridges Demographics

Youth by Gender

%

Male

%

Female

Youth by Disability Type

Youth by Ethnicity

%

Specific Learning Disabilities

%

Emotional / Behavioral Disabilities

%

Other Health Impairments

%

Autism Spectrum Disorders

%

Intellectual Disabilities

%

African American

%

Multi-Racial / Other

%

Hispanic

%

Asian

%

White

Bridges Demographics

Youth by Gender

%

Male

%

Female

Youth by Disability Type

%

Specific Learning Disabilities

%

Other Health Impairments

%

Intellectual Disabilities

%

Emotional / Behavioral Disabilities

%

Autism Spectrum Disorders

Youth by Ethnicity

%

African American

%

Hispanic

%

White

%

Multi-Racial / Other

%

Asian

Bridges Quick Facts

77% of Bridges participants are still in high school at the time they enroll.
Map of the United States with three location pinsWith programs across 12 major U.S. cities, Bridges maintains partnerships with some of the nation’s largest school districts, some which have endured for more than 25 years.
90% of Bridges participants are between the ages of 16 and 20.

Over 90% Of Bridges participants and employers report a positive experience with the program.
of Bridges participants and employers report a positive experience with the program.

Housing Icon

Living at Home

95% of Bridges participants still live at home with their parent or guardian.

Person Icon

Employment Specialists

Nine of our 10 program directors across the country began their Bridges careers as Employment Specialists, the direct service personnel who work with participants to prepare for, find and succeed in jobs.

School Building Icon

Heard about us how?

85% of Bridges participants heard about Bridges through a teacher or through a Bridges Employment Specialist who visited their high school.

Board of Trustees

Richard Marriott
Chairman of the Board, Host Hotels and Resorts

Jennie Blumenthal
CEO & Founder, Corporate Rehab

Debbie Harrison
Global Culture Ambassador Emeritus,
Marriott International

King Jordan
President Emeritus, Gallaudet University

Ellen Mardiks
Chair, Golin

Jimmie Paschall

Julie Sweet
Chair and CEO, Accenture

Smiling young woman with blond hair wearing her work badge