Bridges Training Foundation

Bridges Training Foundation in Midlothian, Texas, truly lives up to its mission of "elevating lives beyond limits and labels toward more independent living." As a nonprofit organization established in 2012, they have consistently demonstrated their commitment to filling a critical gap in services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

If you're looking for an organization that combines professional expertise with genuine care, innovative programming with proven results, and individual attention with community integration, Bridges Training Foundation is absolutely outstanding. They're not just changing lives - they're building bridges to brighter futures for individuals with disabilities and their families.

We, Jamie and family, have been involved with Bridges from the very beginning. It is a great place for young adults to hang out with friends, sharing a meal and activities during the day. They also have a party or two during the year for everyone to dress up for a Winter Ball or a costume for Halloween. A great Christmas gift exchange and party is a highlight for everybody. I might add Bridges have outings for the members to go experience new places. Thank goodness for Bridges, Midlothian, Texas.

Bridges Training Foundation is an outstanding organization…they provide many social and educational activities with lots of love, patience, encouragement, and understanding of each of our child’s unique needs. Speaking of my daughter, in the past before attending Bridges she has always been left out of inner circles because of her disabilities (autism/ nonverbal/ hearing impairment). For most of her life most people didn’t know how to interact with her, therefore, they wouldn’t interact with her at all… which resulted in my daughter’s past seclusion, sadness, and losing interest in everything she enjoyed doing, when in fact, you just need to act and speak to her as if she was “normal” even if she doesn’t talk back… like they do at Bridges! The staff at Bridges has changed Tiffany’s world… seeing how they approach and interact with Tiffany has been a God send!! I can see the difference at home and in public… she is back to drawing, smiling, participating with us in activities, and trying to use her voice as best as she can. There are no words to express my deepest gratitude for this… my heart is extremely happy for her! If we didn’t have the Bridges Training Foundation family for Tiffany I guarantee you Tiffany’s world would be a very lonely world.
I have so much peace when I leave her at Bridges because I know she is in good hands and getting everything she needs to blossom.
Thank you Bridges from the bottom of my heart!! The difference you have made in our lives is immeasurable!!
God Bless!!

Bridges Training Foundation has been a lifeline for my special needs daughter. After high school graduation, her social network was nearly non-existent and she was lost without the daily structure of school. I started researching resources to help her and found the BTF Clubhouse. She started attending and quickly made new friends and began to learn important skills such as cooking, exercise, shopping, and socializing in our community. The staff is wonderful and really cares about each client. We are so grateful that we found such a wonderful place for our daughter to grow and learn!

I am the great aunt of Lexi Todd. Recently, I’ve become active in helping Lexi get to and from her Bridges classes. Lexi loves the time with her friends and teachers. She not only has learned helpful life living techniques but the socialization skills have helped Lexi grow more mature and friendly.

Myself, I have been so impressed by Jennifer, Lynda and Chris and their professional and helpful attitudes.
They are kind, understanding, caring and overall supportive of the people who love Lexi and want her to grow and thrive. For, Lexi is thriving and the Bridges Training classes are such a major portion of the reason for her well being.

The efforts of all the people who make the Bridges Training Foundation function, are so appreciated.

Bridges Training Foundation holds a special place in both my heart and my professional journey. I’ve had the rare and rewarding experience of engaging with this organization from three meaningful perspectives — as a professional in the field of disability services, as the parent of a young adult with special needs, and as a member of the Bridges team.
As a professional, I’ve worked with a wide range of programs that support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Bridges stands out for its deeply person-centered philosophy and its ability to blend structure with flexibility. The staff are not only well-trained and trauma-informed, but they also meet each client where they are — emotionally, socially, and cognitively. Their dedication to life skills development, community integration, and long-term growth is evident in every aspect of the program.
As a parent, I can say without hesitation that Bridges has been transformative for my child. Finding the right support system — one that fosters growth, independence, and true belonging — has always been a top priority for our family. At Bridges, my child is not just supported — he is seen, valued, and empowered. The team nurtures real progress, helping him gain confidence, self-advocacy skills, and a sense of purpose in the world around him.
As an employee, I had the privilege of witnessing the integrity, professionalism, and heart that drives this organization from the inside. Bridges is not only client-focused — it is employee-supportive. Leadership is approachable and transparent, and staff are treated as valued collaborators. Teamwork, respect, and open communication define the workplace culture. It’s a place where feedback is welcomed, innovation is encouraged, and the mission is lived out every day.
In short, Bridges Training Foundation is a model of excellence in adult transition services. Whether you are a parent seeking the right next step for your loved one, a professional looking for a trusted community partner, or a job-seeker searching for meaningful work with purpose — I wholeheartedly recommend Bridges.
It isn’t just a program — it’s a community. A place where differences are embraced, growth is nurtured, and every individual is treated with dignity and care.

We were so very lucky to have found the Bridges when we did almost 2 yrs ago. My daughter had just turned 18 and we were at a loss of where to go. Bridges was a saving grace. She has learned to be part of a community. She loves the outings the whole group goes on. She looks forward to the days she goes to the clubhouse. She has made so many friends that she wouldn't have met if it wasn't for the clubhouse. They have pointed me towards resources that I wasn't aware existed. We will be forever thankful and greatful and look forward to many more years of being part of such a wonderful organization

Jesus said about His believers that you will know them by their "fruits". And I can see fruits of love and dedication in Bridges Training Foundation. I have known the Bolers since 2017. My daughter with Down Syndrome has benefited from this foundation in those years she has been with Bridges. You would be hard pressed to find better people than the Bolers who certainly exhibit a love and sincere concern for the special needs community and people with disabilities. May God bless the Bolers and Bridges Training Foundation for many years to come.

Wonderful organization. Works with a lot of different type of clients.

Bridges has helped our organization extensively with networking over the past few years. They are an incredible foundation doing work that is invaluable.

Bridges heart is to help individuals with intellectual disabilities feel valued, worthy and productive by providing training but Bridges does so much more. Bridges does offer all that and more to those with intellectual disabilities but Bridges also has such a heart to see all of Ellis County nonprofits thrive. Bridges organizes and provides resource fairs to help Ellis County nonprofits and our community know about each other and promotes a spirit of unity and collaboration.

Bridges training foundation is an excellent source for those who are underserved in our community. They also have been working hard to help all of our non-profit organizations work together. They work with our CATT (Community Action Through Teamwork) unit every year to host a non-profit expo, where all the non-profits can come together and help one another.

Bridges Training Foundation is one of the uniting entities for non-profit agencies serving Ellis county. Providing a service to individuals with intellectual disabilities that have such great potential for contribution is important, but treating those individuals and the caregivers that love them with dignity is what is extremely valuable. Because the foundation brings together other non-profits, it assists the wonderful community of Ellis County to demonstrate compassion and quality services that benefit us all. Thank you, Bridges Foundation!

I am a fellow non-profit leader who has benefitted from Bridges Training Foundation vision and collaboration in our community. They value community partnerships and relationships with other non-profits. I know about many other resources in our community due to their efforts to be a light in our community to other non-profits!

What a wonderful organization this is- providing invaluable partnerships and training for the community.

Bridges Training Foundation goes above and beyond for all of their clients. Michael and Melissa have a strong passion for what they do and are an asset to the community. I would highly recommend Bridges Training Foundation to anyone that would need their services.

Wonderful organization and even better people! As a community outreach police officer, I've worked with the Bridges Foundation on numerous occasions. They've done so much for the community and truly have a heart to serve others.

This organization has worked with countless individuals with disabilities and their families to improve their situation. It’s impressive to see the dedication to this truly underserved population. Every decision they make is about what’s in the best interest of those they serve not only today but in the future.

It is a blessing to work alongside Bridges Training Foundation. We are thankful for the gap they fill in our community and the hearts they serve with ♥️

This is a great organization that helps the community immensely.

Need a phone # to contact a local umpire association. My 17 year old grandson (umpire) was terminated because he had a baseball commitment. Grandson had informed the umpire of this baseball commitment prior to his hiring. Umpire fired him on the spot. Can anything be done about this. Grandson has been an umpire for about 4-5 weeks and never missed a game. This happened in Midlothian, Tx. He is totally devasted about this and loved being an umpire.

My wife, Shelley, and I have been involved with Bridges for many years and my wife currently sits on their board of directors. We have had multiple opportunities to interact with Bridges in the form of being donors to their activities, volunteering time to help with their activities and supporting them in their efforts in any way that way can. Their mission is very near and dear to our hearts as our middle son is on the Autism spectrum and Bridges has been very helpful in working with our son on his social skills and helping with getting a job through working on interviewing skills, communication skills and through their connections in the community. They truly assist in all ways when it comes to readying young adults with developmental disabilities for the work force and reinforcing the mantras that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their individual potential and be an asset for their community and for themselves. Bridges is a shining gem for our community and have help hundreds of people be the best they can be!

Inclusion is so important, and the Bridges Training Foundation's work is insurmountable for that. It is so easy for people to take for granted the most basic of things that are a struggle for others. I appreciate all the help and work they strive for making sure everyone is included.

This organization is fueled by love, compassion, and altruism. Knowing that decisions for the Bridges Training Foundation are made with thoughtful leadership earns my respect and gratitude.

Bridges Training Foundation is a community-focused organization driven by the imperative to create safe and equitable spaces for people with diverse abilities. This organization is led by visionary, servant leaders with audacious dreams of cultivating a kinder, more inclusive, world where everyone has access to everything they need to thrive!

Anyone that interacts with this organization will have nothing but praise for the people involved and the work being done!

If there were a way to give more than 5 stars, I would!

Individualized service for everyone! Bridges sees each person as a person. No super ability, no disability. Just a person.

Bridges is a fantastic organization that values and promotes inclusion for people with special needs. This organization recognizes and focuses on the potential and abilities of individuals rather than solely viewing them from a deficit perspective. Bridges Training Foundation plays a crucial role in making our community a supportive and inclusive community for individuals with special needs and their families. By highlighting possibilities and opportunities, they help empower individuals to live their fullest lives and reach their greatest potential. Inclusive organizations like Bridges help challenge stereotypes and promote a more comprehensive understanding of the abilities and talents of individuals with special needs. By fostering a positive and accepting environment, they contribute to breaking down barriers and creating a society that values diversity and inclusion.

As a mother of special needs children, I cannot begin to express how important this organization is. Knowing Bridges is here in my community ready to help my boys better adapt to society as they get older, is a huge weight off my shoulders. Thank you Bridges for all you do!

The people at Bridges are the kindest and hardest working. They are here to help and educate our community. Our community is stronger as a result of their efforts. We are very blessed to be a part of Bridges

I am a parent of a 4 year old with Down Syndrome. I attended a informational event for parents and caregivers in regards to IEP meetings. My daughter is too young to join in on the Social Groups they host at Bridges. But I'm excited to know there are such groups for when my daughter gets older.

Highly recommend, they truly care about the people who walk into the doors.
Bridges also goes above and beyond for all of their clients and truly care for the individuals success!

Highly recommend they have an awesome staff that are very helpful and friendly.

Bridges Training Foundation not only provides job training, placement and assistance to the individuals with special needs now,but they also go above and beyond in saying they support their clients for life! The care and compassion that goes into each and every client is unmatched!

Bridges doesn't just help me look for a job, they help me with life!

Bridges Foundation provides more than skills and empowerment to the families in need they serve. Bridges provides opportunities for the abled in our community to serve those that have been underserved and pushed to the fringe of our society. By hosting community events for all, opening the Bazaar, and facilitating interactions through jobs and social activities - Bridges educates, enlightens, and elevates the lives of any that take even a moment’s time to interact with the organization. As a family, we have had multiple touch points with Bridges and everyone has left a lasting impact.

Michael and Melissa are two of the most beautiful souls I have had the pleasure of working with/for. I first heard about Bridges when I was assigned to go there for my fieldwork rotation at school. I was blessed to be surrounded by their clients, whom I LOVED going to see every week. I was also able to be a part of their vocational program in 2019. It was intrinsically rewarding to be a part of their program. Bridges fills a gap that was so needed in the community of people with IDD. It allows their clients to continue learning and applying life skills and to challenge themselves to be as independent as possible.

I have been to the big BBQ bash two years and I believe that the Bridges Foundation really takes the time and effort to help these kids in ways that no one else does. Yea and thanks for all you do.

Bridges Training Foundation goes above and beyond for all of their clients. They take “what is best for the client” to a whole new level and make sure each and every person is taken care of. Truly an amazing nonprofit.

I am a volunteer at Bridges, and have been impressed by the professionalism of the staff and their consistent focus on developing services individualized for the needs and desires of each person with a disability. The organization recognizes that programs and resources for people with disabilities are limited, but applies effort to design services that meet the needs of the community and the people they serve.

Worthwhile nonprofit making a positive impact on the furtherance of opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Melissa and Michael are dedicated to their calling of making a quality life available to those individuals who “fall through the cracks” after High School. Their mission is clearly to enable individuals with opportunities that prove they are contributing, valuable members of society.

Bridges Training Foundation is one of the organizations that truly commits to serving this population. Not only do they have a passion to change lives they are in it for the long haul. They endeavor to meet the needs of each individual where they are, meaning what do they need to have there life changed for the better.

This could mean anything from finding them a job to providing a social outlet or life skills training, vocational development in preparation for a future job, academics, money exchange, conflict resolution, advocacy for the whole family not just the individuals they work with i.e. navigating the social services system, education system, transportation, support groups for parents and care givers.

lots of people ask what does bridges do?? The true answer even though its a little vague is "what do you need"

Bridges is an organization that is focused on the point of need of the individuals they work with and to that end, you cant find a more caring and committed group of folks to urn to when you need help.

2 years ago, I moved from the east coast with my Autistic young adult son for reasons, unfortunately, that didn't work out for him. With no family or friends, I had to navigate my way in finding a life for my son. Bridges Training Foundation wasn't only an incredible resource but they embraced my son and I, both. Bridges is unique in its advocating for individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs , while lending total support for the parent(s) and caregivers. Their comprehensive leveled training system is second to none. Their focus on ability, not disability, facilitates an individuals confidence leading to the success of purposeful life. I will be forever grateful for "open doors" and heart of Bridges Training Foundation.

This organization has created the most caring, encouraging and uplifting environment for special needs individuals and their families.
We could not have found a better place for our daughter after high school ended for her. The administration is highly ethical and dedicated to their mission of providing a safe place for her to continue in her adult development. We need for this organization to expand in order to allow many more young with special adults to have this exceptional opportunity.

Just being a small part of helping out with bridges and seeing the big difference they make in the community fills your heart with joy.

Bridges Training Foundation favorably enhances the quality of life for precious souls living with disabilities. The COVID-19 Pandemic has altered the way Bridges extends services, but programs are being modified to maximize the benefit to each client. The flexibility and total client focus are two reasons why I am a Proud Bridges board member and Supporter. Now, more than ever, Bridges Training Foundation needs your help! Thank you for your consideration.

Bridges commitment to serving special populations is topped by no other non profit in the area. Their motto “what is best for the client” is the driving force that propels them forward. Each employee and each decision places the utmost emphasis on the needs of each individual client.

Bridges Training Foundation puts individuals with special needs at the top. They treat them with dignity and respect. They are given educational opportunities for both continued academic learning as well as daily living skills. My daughter loves her Bridges Family and so do we!

Bridges helped my adult son write his resume, practice interviewing, and helped him find a job. They did more in a month than the Texas Workforce did in a couple of years.

Bridges Foundation cares about all of its clients and works with them in everyway possible. Our county has few affordable resources for handicapped adults either providing job coaching, socialization among peers, and continuing education. Bridges help caregivers/families with needed help in understanding of their client/child.

Bridges Training Foundation is a much needed, wonderful organization that improves the lives of young adults! Bridges not only advocates, teaches and finds job placements for these precious people, but also offers a friendly place to feel and be apart of a community.