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Arlington Bridge Builders is an interdenominational network of churches working with each other, individuals, non-profits, businesses, and civic agencies to seek the flourishing of our community.
Program Summary
Our emphasis on Community Service focuses on five impact areas, with key programs in each:
1. Poverty Alleviation: food pantry, rent and utility assistance, job training
2. Vulnerable Children: after-school program for at-risk students
3. Serving Immigrants: English conversation classes, Citizenship classes, Client services
4. Neighboring: Community and cultural festivals, Arlington Turkey Trot
5. Spiritual & Mental Health: pastoral and professional counseling
Impact Statement
Our food pantry provides food for over 1,000 people each week. Most of the recipients are immigrants living on the social and economic margins, but we are also seeing a significant increase in professionals facing food insecurity for the first time.
Our English conversation classes not only help immigrants practice English, they help connect neighbors to one another, providing the broader social relationships that immigrants need to thrive.
Our citizenship classes help immigrants prepare for the naturalization exam. Approximately 15 students enroll in each course, with most taking the exam.
Our after-school program focuses on students who are not at grade level in math or reading, and are at risk of falling behind for a lifetime. We are not only seeing increased academic proficiency in the students, but also hope and determination to succeed.
We coordinate the annual Arlington Turkey Trot, to bring together people from all over Arlington for a fun social event that raises over $250,000 each year, directed not to Arlington Bridge Builders but to local nonprofits serving our most vulnerable neighbors.
What ways can the public get involved?
Food pantry: volunteers can donate, pick up and distribute food. We also have a hospitality tent to welcome recipients and encourage conversation.
English conversation: volunteers can meet with 1-3 immigrants who want to practice speaking English.
Citizenship class: volunteers can help immigrants prepare for the naturalization exam.
After-school program: volunteers can help teach English or math, as well as help lead enrichment activities.
Arlington Turkey Trot: volunteers are needed to serve as course marshals, hand out water and snacks, help set up and take down equipment.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
$50 provides a backpack and supplies for a needy child$100 provides materials for one child in our after-school program
$250 helps our food pantry feed a family for one month
$500 helps provide one month’s rent for a family facing eviction
$1,000 helps employ a Client Support representative who helps serves vulnerable neighbors and connects them with other resources
