Bridge Communities

Specialties

Bridge Communities is a dynamic, grassroots, non-​profit organization committed to transforming the lives of homeless families in DuPage County through partnering with talented, resourceful individuals and groups in our community. Bridge’s program of housing, mentoring and empowering families focuses on moving them toward a goal of self-​sufficiency.

History

Established in 1988.

When Mark Milligan and Bob Wahlgren rented that first apartment for a homeless family, they really did not know this act of kindness would take their lives in down a new road. Twenty years later, they would be joined on this road by many who would volunteer to help others in need. Together, all would journey the road toward a better life.

In 1988, the idea to provide housing and intensive life-​skills mentoring to homeless families was met with a degree of skepticism. Many doubted that two businessmen could change how the community responded to and served homeless families. But Mark and Bob’s visionary model, joining each homeless family with a volunteer mentor and professional case manager, has changed the lives of thousands. Bridge has grown and expanded its services during the past two decades, but the commitment to creating change in the lives of homeless families has never wavered.