We are a community-driven nonprofit that equips people with communication and leadership skills to transform divides. Youth participants learn to listen, connect, and confidently lead to make positive change in their communities. We have been doing this work for 25 years, and have more than 2000 alumni living around the world.

Participants in our programs gain awareness about themselves, form relationships across various identities, and build skills to talk about conflict and differences. In particular, we address issues such as power and privilege along lines of race, class, gender, religion, sexual orientation, culture, and other identities.

Although we are excited that the COVID -19 positivity rate is decreasing in Metro Denver, we recognize that there is still a public health crisis and vaccines aren’t fully accessible. Due to this we have decided to hold the 2021 summer intensive in a hybrid format. This will include programming being held both in-person in small groups and virtually.

Through interactive workshops, experiential learning activities, creative projects, and dialogue, participants learn new communication techniques and develop leadership skills. Activities promote critical thinking about the ways divisions, stereotypes, and discrimination influence us. Participants have the opportunity to confront and deeply examine difficult issues from a variety of perspectives. And we also include plenty of fun and free time!

Throughout the school-year, youth come together each month for Home Group to deepen their learning, continue dialogues, and strengthen their new relationships. In addition, we will have a Spring retreat as well as many optional gatherings for continued learning and connection. A final component is to design and implement an individual or group Change Project with specific goals as the program year comes to an end.

• Authentic relationship-building skills within and across identities
• Communication skills that improve their ability to self-express, listen, and empathize
• Critical thinking and leadership to address issues through goal-oriented projects
• Coping skills and self-efficacy for stressful situations including conflict

We recognize the many different learning styles, gifts, and needs of participants and strive to deliver workshops and activities to meet this diversity.

Please note that all program components are conducted in English. Translation/interpretation may be provided based on need and available resources, including for family meetings and orientation.

Additionally, Building Bridges recognizes participants’ diversity as related to disability, medical need, gender identity, dietary needs, and religious practices. During the application process or upon acceptance, please discuss specific requests with program staff. We are committed to inclusive programming and will work to make accommodations wherever possible.

All Building Bridges participants are offered a full scholarship to cover the program expense of $5,500 per participant. This means that your family does NOT pay a program fee in order for you to participate. During the program year, participants may have the opportunity to support Building Bridges’ fundraising efforts. Also, individuals and families are encouraged to make a contribution to the program that is meaningful to them. This may be a financial donation. Or families maybe choose to contribute in different ways, like helping out with meals, supplies, volunteering, or transportation.

You will be contacted by phone or email to let you know we’ve received your application. Also, your parent/guardian is welcome to schedule a separate in-person or phone appointment with Building Bridges’ Program Manager to discuss the program further if needed.

As part of your application, you will schedule an interview with the Recruitment Team as the final step of the application process. After your interview, you will receive notice of whether or not you have been accepted into the program within 2 weeks.

If you are selected, you will receive an acceptance packet with additional information, forms, and the date options for an orientation session to prepare you and your parent/guardian (or other supportive adult) for the summer intensive and your program participation.

2021 Transform FAQ