The path to a better life is easier to walk with friends.
Building bridges between people–that’s been our mission since Mike Fechner and Velma Mitchell built their first bridge of friendship here in 1996!
In 2025, transformational life changes were accomplished–teens received spiritual mentorship, senior citizens were nurtured with fellowship, and thousands received food and resources at BridgeBuilders.
But none of our work happens without partnership–transformation begins together.
Stories of Transformation
Marisol
Part 1
Marisol came aboard with BridgeBuilders to set the foundations for our new grocery delivery program for homebound seniors, a needed work providing food for neighbors with mobility and access issues. As a longtime resident of Bonton, she was the right person to build with us at the right time.
“I love people–I care for people a lot,” says Marisol. Her passion is transformative as she serves her own neighborhood. She’s deeply plugged into Bonton Bible Church–alongside Pastor Brandon, who leads our Community Team. God is the guiding force in her life and the way she builds bridges.
As a BridgeBuilder, she deepened her understanding of transformation by being the support for others that she has received from the neighbors and organizations around her. “We have gold in our hands here. The community just has to trust and believe,” she says.
Part 2
Marisol came to us in the middle of God’s plan for her. That’s where we always meet people–on a journey, working towards transformation. She was always meant to build bridges, but her dream was to be a medical assistant, and she was looking for the confidence to find her way in.
God provided for her, and BridgeBuilders got to help her build the next season! “Y’all worked with me every step of the way,” Marisol says, “BridgeBuilders and Pastor Brandon encouraged me and helped with my doubts. You reminded me I could do it!” This year, she accomplished her dream and found her next step, transformed by the work she’s been doing.
Now she serves her neighbors in line with her calling, and she still sends them our way when we can be their friend as we were for her. She’s building bridges of transformation for others through the relationships she made at BridgeBuilders!
We’re proud to play a role in our neighbors’ lives–especially when we get to see them on to the life they dreamed of! Marisol’s story is one of transformation, and your support made that possible.
Okiy
Part 1
Okiy has been running with BridgeBuilders for 13 years–most of his life–and he credits his growth to the relationships he’s built here. “I learned how to control emotion. Emotions can take you a long way up the road or down the road, depending on how you use them,” he conveys.
Making healthy choices in difficult emotional moments is truly a superpower, and it’s something Okiy has practiced at BridgeBuilders. He’s aware that emotional breakdowns can lead to serious consequences, especially in your adult years. Yet having good friends alongside helps him pursue what’s best for him.
“I think if I didn’t have the people I have in my life, I wouldn’t be where I am. BridgeBuilders is what built me to this day,” he graciously says. Transformation begins together! Every one of us can make the journey easier for others; thank you for doing so with BridgeBuilders.
Part 2
One thing doesn’t change for Okiy no matter the transformation in his life: “Bonton is forever with me.”
He’s just turned 18 and now looks forward to his college options. In his final season of high school, he’s spent his time tutoring the younger kids in our program. For Okiy, that means being something for others that he’s always wanted and not always had–a leader and mentor.
Okiy says, “It means a lot to me, because seeing a kid thanking me or giving me a hug… it means a lot.” Transformed people transform people, and he is a shining example. BridgeBuilders runs alongside Bonton and Ideal in partnership, because transformation begins together.
Spark transformation with us below!
Be a spark of transformation
Feel encouraged by the good going on through our partnership work! Our emails will uplift you with stories, and you can continue to spark transformation by giving now:
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