Peninsula Bridge

I have been with Peninsula Bridge since middle school, and I am grateful of the support they have provided me. Peninsula Bridge helped me grow my network over the years, opening the doors to opportunities in various educational and career pathways. The internships they offer have helped me explore fields from biotechnology to banking, which has expanded my skill set that I can apply to any job and career field. Thank you Peninsula Bridge!

I have been a part of Peninsula Bridge throughout most of my academic journey, from middle school to college, and PB has had a profound impact on my success thus far.

As a first-generation student, they have helped me with academic challenges, social and emotional challenges, professional challenges, and so much more. Whenever I faced any hurdle, my advisors were always ready to help me in whatever manner they could. I can undoubtedly state that I would not be where I am today without the support of Peninsula Bridge.

Peninsula Bridge has been instrumental in shaping who I am today by providing me with the skills, experiences and mentors that have profoundly influenced my personal and professional growth. I joined Peninsula Bridge's High School Academy Class of 2018 (the first high school PB class to graduate from college!) after my junior year of high school, unlike most of my peers who joined in 3rd grade. Although I joined Peninsula Bridge late, two of my advisors made me feel welcomed since the beginning. They both played a crucial role in helping me understand the college application process and the complexities of applying for financial aid. I wouldn't have been able to attend my dream college without their immense support.

While in college, Peninsula Bridge continued to provide support with their College Success Program. They helped me navigate the ups and downs of being a first-gen college student and were always there to encourage me along the way. Through Peninsula Bridge, I also had the opportunity to visit different companies and ask professionals about their career paths, resume writing tips and how to conduct informational interviews. This exposure allowed me to figure out what I wanted to study and what career I wanted to pursue.

Lastly, thanks to the strong connections and supportive network cultivated through Peninsula Bridge, I was able to land a job just 2 months after graduating from college at a biotech company in the Bay Area. To this day, Peninsula Bridge continues to support my professional and personal growth and I will forever be grateful for the lasting impact this program and the people at this program have made in my life.

I joined Peninsula Bridge when I first started high school. They provided me with so much academic support from the start. As a first gen student, the support I got from them during the college application process and throughout my transition to college was such a big part of my success. Not only that, but throughout my time at Bridge I’ve been provided with so many internship and professional development opportunities that have helped me grow both professionally and personally. It’s great to know that even after graduating college, I can still count on the support and encouragement of its amazing staff. I’m super grateful to have been a part of Peninsula Bridge!

I give all my success and growth to Peninsula Bridge. I would not be the person I am today if it wasn't for Peninsula Bridge. I have been a part of PB since the summer program in 5th grade and I feel extremely blessed to have been part of it at an early age. PB is a program that I would recommend to anyone and would highly push them to start from the very beginning. Every part of the program from the summer programs to college has been extremely crucial to my personal success and outlook on everything.
It is amazing to know who the people are behind PB and the amount of work and dedication they put into their students to assure success and opportunities. As a first generation student, I felt extremely supported through PB as my parents also didn't understand or know how to navigate my academic journey.
I will forever be grateful to PB for giving me numerous opportunities and support such as internships, study sessions, networking, practice interviews, etc. They have provided me resources that I would have never been able to receive/ figure out on my own.
PB also taught me a lot about myself and truly believed in me when I didn't even believe in myself at one point.
THANK YOU Peninsula Bridge!

Peninsula Bridge has been a cornerstone in my educational journey. Since elementary school, the program has been there, guiding me through each academic transition and preparing me for the next step. I am deeply grateful for the numerous opportunities the program has provided, especially as a first-generation college student. From connecting me with a dedicated mentor to offering invaluable resources through the College Success Program, it’s been a consistent source of encouragement and a safety net that I can always rely on.

Furthermore, Peninsula Bridge has helped me navigate the complexities of higher education and career planning, providing a strong support system that has been essential for my personal and professional growth. The lifelong connections I’ve made and the opportunities I’ve been given are a testament to the program’s profound influence.

For me, Peninsula Bridge has become a nurturing community that invests in your success, making a significant difference in the lives of first-generation college students from underrepresented communities like me.

I have been apart of Peninsula Bridge for more than a decade and through those years, Bridge has shaped and influenced parts of my life in very positive ways. Assisting me through my college journey, helping me network with other individuals, but most importantly allowing me to grow and flourish as a person.

Opportunities and experiences that Peninsula Bridge offered me, allowed me to gain a Worldview that expanded my understanding of the world. A perspective that without their help wouldn't have been possible for me. With Peninsula Bridge's support I was able to recognize that there are opportunities in life, beyond your immediate area, and beyond what you can imagine. Never put yourself in a box. Real life journeys and stories are made expanding what you believe to be possible.

Peninsula Bridge is rapidly growing and I see their influence pushing more boundaries every year. Despite their more recent success as an organization, their dedication and grassroots effort to serve underprivileged youth in the Bay Area remains the same. As they continue to support students through their schooling journey, whether that is middle school, high-school or college; their motto stays grounded on influencing the youth in positive ways.

I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for Peninsula Bridge. The program has impacted my life academically and personally because I met some of the most amazing people, many of whom I consider my closest friends. I also received invaluable guidance in applying to independent schools and colleges. The provided me with a mentor who was with me along every step of the process.

The skills and experiences I gained through the program didn't just stop at academics. Peninsula Bridge helped me secure internships that were instrumental in my career development, teaching me life skills that have been crucial in my professional life. Thanks to the support and preparation I received, I was able to land a job with a company I interned at, a testament to the program's impact.

I am deeply grateful for the lifelong connections and opportunities Peninsula Bridge has provided me. It’s more than just a program; it’s a community that invests in your success, both personally and professionally.

I've been part of Peninsula Bridge throughout middle school, high school, college, and my early professional life. Their influence on me has been profound. As a first-generation college student, Peninsula Bridge was there every step of the way to navigate the path to higher education. They inspired me to apply for scholarships and college, guiding me through the process with unwavering support.

Beyond academic guidance, Peninsula Bridge equipped me with critical professional skills such as resume writing, financial tracking, interview practice, and networking. These skills have been invaluable, allowing me to bring my best self to school, networking events, and part-time and full-time roles.

What truly sets Peninsula Bridge apart is connecting students with real-world opportunities. Through internships and valuable experiences, I gained the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in interviews and secure more opportunities.

The staff at Peninsula Bridge are incredibly dedicated, always going above and beyond to support their students. They make it clear that Peninsula Bridge isn’t just an after-school program; it’s a community where students and young professionals can learn and grow.

I joined Peninsula Bridge when I was in the 4th grade. I am now a college graduate and this organization has helped me through it all. Providing amazing resources and opportunities for internships with potential job enrollments. I was truly fortunate to have gotten the chance to be a part of Bridge and can not say enough great things about them as they have been an email or text away whenever I needed help with financial aid, etc. They put a lot of hard work into the program and I hope more students for years and years and years to come are able to join Bridge and take advantage of everything they offer.

I have been a member of Peninsula Bridge for more than 10 years now. I started the program in 3rd grade and Peninsula Bridge has continuously supported me through high school, college, and even as an alumnus! The resources and support they provide are unlike any other program and I am so incredibly proud to continue being a member of the community and helping future generations.

I have had the privilege to volunteer as a mentor for PB (and now also serve on the parent advisory committee) and have seen first hand the hard work, dedication and compassion PB leaders & volunteers put in to each piece of the program to provide a robust, well rounded program to motivated, under represented students. My daughter volunteered this past summer as a student tutor and loved being a part of the summer enrichment process helping middle school students work hard to keep up their learning even during their summer break. We are both grateful to be a part of this organization and look forward to continue volunteering to help in the many ways PB offers enrichment & support to an amazing group of motivated students & their families.

Having worked at similar organizations, Peninsula Bridge stands out as an example of how an organization can successfully support students. By engaging with students prior to high school and continuing those relationships throughout college, students know they have a support system to carry them into their careers. Peninsula Bridge is genuinely committed, and so are the volunteers and staff. It truly is an exceptional organization.

Kudos to Peninsula Bridge for investing in our youth!

I worked with Peninsula Bridge for a little over two years and I LOVED it. I got the opportunity to work face-to-face with students from around the Bay Area and support them with their studies in Math and Science. My favorite part about the students in Peninsula Bridge is their attitude. Graduating from high school and transitioning away from family is no easy feat, but the students are determined to work hard by putting their head down and utilizing the program's resources. Alongside their determination, the community of Peninsula Bridge, filled with alumni and mentors, is one that is collaborative and encouraging for students of all educational backgrounds. It's amazing to be part of an organization that fosters an encouraging and motivational community.

Peninsula Bridge has so many amazing resources and programs for students to get on the journey to achieving collegiate success! The TAs, Tutors Peninsula Bridge Team are all deeply invested in the education of the students. This organization has allowed me to feel like I am helping solve an issue bigger than myself. Overall Peninsula Bridge deserves the best as they truly keep the public well-being in mind.

Peninsula has so many amazing resources and opportunities for students and families to get the support they need in academic and real-world success! The teachers are all very enthusiastic about education and provide great guidance to the kids.

I have been a TA for teachers at Peninsula Bridge all throughout high school and the experience has been absolutely amazing. Not only are the teachers super driven and passionate about teaching, but they are also super great at helping kids stay focused and interested in the lessons, which is especially challenging on Zoom. I love being able to help out all the kids and teachers, and I think it is super important to help out under privileged communities and families, as there is such a large gap in education in the Bay Area. It is important that privileged communities and people help to equal the playing field and up lift all aspects of our community, and Peninsula Bridge is an amazing way to do so.

I loved this nonprofit! Not only did I get to connect with an amazing student, but also grew as a tutor. Everything was very well organized, and it was a great and fulfilling role!

I've volunteered at Peninsula Bridge for the past 3 years. During my years with Bridge, I've had the chance to work with so many amazing students and see the many ways in which Bridge helps prepare them for success in and outside of the classroom. These include hosting student panels to prepare middle schoolers for the transition to high school, offering elective classes to help students discover new interests, 1-1 tutoring sessions, and more. Bridge makes sure to hire engaging, passionate teachers who care deeply about their students. The teaching assistants are also thoroughly trained and assist with offering students personalized, 1-1 attention. Overall, the program has set up a strong support system for every student.

My name is Rodrigo, I'm a proud father of a 14 years old kid that goes to Abbott Middle School. Thanks to this excellent program he was able to turn around a bad experience with the worst math teacher at this school. While he was belittled, make fun off and call names by the teacher with other students, I saw my son having the worst time of school. While I complain and change this situation, I felt the School District could it done more, that's when I turned and trusted Bridges program to help me change my son bad experience into a positive one. Thanks to this program, he is now a 4.0 student, flourishing and working twice as hard and I thank God for people like yourselves that provides help to this non-profit organization. It helps turn around situations like mine that often occurs at public schools. Please help this program for us , the less fortunate to give our kids a better chance in life to succeed. Thanks again Bridges Program.

I'm a donor to Peninsula Bridge. I like their mission. I like that they have a long history of service in the palo alto community. Giving disadvantaged youth a summer enrichment activity is a wonderful way to keep them engaged in school and keep them from falling further behind. -Abe Farag

Peninsula Bridge does an amzing job of partnering with the host schools to provide opportunities for the children who attend. What the Brdige program provides is not just an opportunity to continue their academic studies during the summer, but an opportunity to explore their full potential and see the educational and career paths available when you set your goals high and work hard to achieve them.

This academic summer camp for low income middle school students does a terrific job of preparing them for college prep work once they hit high school. They improve their study skills, become better writers, and develop the self confidence to take on challenging work.

My son has worked as a teaching assistant for Peninsula Bridge for the past two years. He has such a terrific time that he can't wait to teach the kids again this summer!

HOLA MI NOMBRE ES MARTIN MORA Y EL DE MI ESPOSA ES LUGARDA GOMEZ. A MI ME GUSTARIA COMENTARLES QUE MI HIJO : JUAN MORA TUVO LA FORTUNA DE PARTICIPAR EN EL PROGRAMA DE PENINSULA BRIGE POR 4 ANOS CONTINUOS LO CUAL SIEMPRE VOY A ESTAR AGRADECIDO YA QUE MI HIJO CRECIO ACADEMICAMENTE ADEMAS DE CRECER COMO PERSONA Y MORALMENTE YA QUE ESOS ANOS QUE PASO EN PENINSULA BRIGE ESTUVO RODEADO DE GRANDES PERSONAS YCOMPANEROS QUE VENIAN LLENOS DE ENERGIA , DE GRANDES IDEAS Y DE MUCHA MOTIVACION QUE INFLUYERON EN MI HIJO EL CUAL SIEMPRE VOY A ESTAR AGRADECIDO AHORA MI HIJA DAISY ESTACON UNA APLCACION EN PENINSULA LA CUAL ESPERO QUE ELLA PUEDA SER PARTE DE PENINSULA BRIGE E INFLUYA COMO LO HIZO CON MI HIJO ''''' MUCHAS GRACIAS A TODOS LOS QUE FORMAN PARTE DE PENINSULA''''' BRIGE'''''

The Peninsula Bridge is a truly amazing organization that is unlike any other in their field. I have watched and witness some very touching accomplishments by the student bridge participants. Watching their enthusiasm while in the program and activities and well after as they are well on their way to other times in their lives. I am also amazed how the Peninsula Bridge has become such a well know, well received and celebrated organization in our community. When talking with people about the Peninsula Bridge they say, "I know about the Bridge", and then they share their own "Bridge Story".

I have been on the board of Peninsula Bridge for over two years. The organization provides invaluable opportunity for students to transform their expectations about what is possible in their lives. To hear their stories and see the program live during the summer makes one recognize the difference one can make in a child's life...and not for somebody far away, but for our own neighborhood and community.

I have loved what the Bridge Program has offered us. It has opened doors that we never knew had existed. We will always be greatful for it. And thankful for the part they played in the educational and sociable development of our son.

This is the 2nd summer my daughter, Francesca, has been in this program; it is such a wonderful program. Francesca enjoyed every single day there and always tells me what she did at the program. She got the opportunity to explore into more areas than what we can provide to her at home. This summer, she was exposed to the subject of psychology for the first time and was so excited about it...I think she may have found another subject she really loves besides mathematics. Also new this summer was a parent education seminar which I thought was truly helpful. To top it all off, everything was provided for free! I feel very fortunate to have Francesca in this program and we look forwards to returning next summer!

It was very fun to be at Peninsula Bridge as a teacher aide in math. During the past three summers I was a bridge student as well for my 6th and 7th grade. This was a great program to be in because the classroom settings and teachers enjoyed one to learn in a fun away. It also allowed students to have a head start for next year. I t was most statisfing for me to be at the Peninsula Bridge Program.

I like that they provide summer school for these kids at no cost because there are a lot of us that can't afford it. My daughter loves this program and I like that it's not just academic but it's a lot of interactions with the other kids because going into middle-school is hard enough. Giving them this opportunity to move on into high school with a little bit more than most kids have behind them..confidence...how to deal with things a little bit better...how they're talking about college now so it's not just us running our mouths, it's them. It's teaching them ways that they can apply for colleges and scholarships and what they have to do. She loves it. And I pick up two other kids every day and they love it and I get a report every day.

I'm an English T.A. at the bridge program and it has been an amazing experience! The students evolve personally and academically and the teachers are passionate, amazing people. It is an amazing program that enables students to excel in school and life. Not only do they learn academic lessons, but also life lessons! Overall, the program has a conductive atmosphere that is conducive to all kinds of growth, and the bond between the students, T.A's, and the teachers is amazing!!!

Peninsula Bridge does an incredible job of preparing youth from underserved neighborhoods along the 101 corridor of the SF Peninsula to be successful when they enter high school. They do this with a commitment to teach the basics of math and English while providing a rich program that is fun and interesting for the students. The organizers, site directors, teachers, mentors and everyone else who is involved are passionate about their mission and do a tremendous job of making the students feel cared for.

Lo que yo pienso es que es un buen programa. Mis hijos se han beneficiado bastante. [Editor's translation: What I think is that it is a good program. My children have really benefited from it.)

My name is Georgina Ruiz and my daughter's name is Daisy Alvarado. She was in the Peninsula Bridge program last year, and this is her second year. I would like to write about the tremendous impact the Peninsula Bridge Program has had on my daughter's life. She was very happy while in the program and she really loved the ways the teachers interacted with her. The teachers and site director were very knowledgeable--very caring, loving, and kind. She learned a lot. I was amazed how she learned big words, like all the muscles in the body. She learned those words last year, but she still remembers them and uses them. She also could not wait to come back all through the year after she finished the program; she was always talking about coming back to the program. She was so excited to come back to the program that she couldn't even sleep the night before the first day. She also was really encouraged to improve, and got very motivated in her life after attending the program.

Mi nombre es Olga, yo tengo a mi hijo David en Peninsula Bridge. El esta muy contento en este programa y yo he mirado que el le ha servido mucho. Yo quiero dar las gracias por haberme dado la oportunidad a David de asistir a este programa. Todo es excelente y tratara de aprovechar lo que le estan ensenando. [Editor's translation: My name is Olga, I have a son David in Peninsula Bridge. He is very happy in this program and I have seen that it has served him a lot. I want to express thanks for David's opportunity to attend this program. Everything is excellent and he will try to use what they are teaching him.]