Employee Spotlight: Erin – Walking Beside Youth on the Path to Possibility

At The Bridge, supporting youth means more than offering services. It means showing up, building trust, and walking alongside them through life’s challenges. Erin, a Path Facilitator who’s been with The Bridge for nearly three years, does just that. She provides one-on-one support to youth in foster care, helping them feel seen, heard, and empowered to move toward their goals​.

A Return to School—and to Hope

One of Erin’s most meaningful experiences happened with a youth who hadn’t attended school in over three years. The young person was resistant to the idea of returning, and Erin knew that building trust would come first.

Over time, their conversations deepened. Erin brought printed photos of a welcoming classroom and suggested a possible schedule to help the youth imagine what could be. That Friday, Erin had the privilege of driving them to their first day back at school.

“They were nervous but also excited,” she recalls. “They thanked me for listening—and for being there.”

Moments like this are what Erin loves most about her work: when a small step opens the door to something bigger.

Creating Space for Connection and Growth

For Erin, The Bridge’s mission to transform lives and build community comes to life every day in the Path program.

“Re-engaging with school is about more than academics. It’s about rebuilding trust, restoring hope, and helping a young person see that they matter,” she says.

By showing up consistently and offering choices, Erin helps youth feel safe enough to imagine a new future. And as they begin to believe in themselves, they become part of something larger—a community of care, connection, and possibility.

Mental Health, Trust, and Healing

Erin wants the community to understand that many youth in care carry invisible emotional burdens—grief, trauma, anxiety, or disconnection. These often show up as resistance or withdrawal.

“What they really need is to feel heard and supported,” Erin explains. “The Path program creates safe, non-judgmental spaces where youth can begin to heal and reconnect with their goals.”

Supporting mental health doesn’t always mean big interventions. Sometimes, it’s just about listening and showing up.

Support Starts From Within

Erin also shared her gratitude for the way The Bridge supports its team.

“When staff feel valued, we’re better able to show up for the youth in meaningful ways. The Bridge really models what it means to build community from the inside out.”

Because every young person deserves someone in their corner—and a path forward.