Bridges Academy « Bridges Of Hope

The Mission of Bridges Academy

“To provide a safe and nurturing environment for orphans, while enriching them with mentoring and a world-class education, equipping leaders who will strengthen their communities and bring about positive change in their nation.”

The Vision

The vision for Bridges Academy arose in 2005 when founding directors, Dennis and Susan Wadley, along with their South African leaders, during their development work in the township of Philippi in the Cape Flats, began to take note of the growing number of Orphans and Vulnerable Children. Because these children lacked adequate education and adult supervision, in their teenage years they began falling into gangs, sexual activity, HIV infection and pregnancy.

Key Aspects of Bridges Academy

Holistic: The children thrive in family-style living conditions with South African house parents providing for their spiritual, social, emotional and physical needs, and are being educated by dynamic teachers and seasoned leaders from around the world, creating an enriching, holistic experience. Much care is given to maintaining the children’s familial and cultural relationships as well.Self-Sustaining:Bridges of Hope is developing businesses that are providing some funding for Bridges Academy. These entrepreneurial endeavors are becoming an educational laboratory for the students, teaching them business skills and providing hands-on entrepreneurial experiences that will prepare them for their future roles as leaders.Reproducible: The Bridges Academy Boarding School is becoming a model for self-sustaining orphan care that can be reproduced across the nation, shaping thousands of orphans’ lives. These children will in turn have a powerful influence on their extended families, communities and nation.

Interactive: The Academy will be equipped with the latest technology including interactive video conferencing, allowing international leaders to equip and influence the students from anywhere around the globe.