Who We Are

Be the Bridge. Build the Future.

The BridgeBuilder Kickstart Program is designed to support community leaders who are already doing the work—mentoring, guiding, and showing up for youth in meaningful ways.

At Viaduct Youth Foundation, we believe real change doesn’t start in boardrooms—it starts in neighborhoods, on courts, in classrooms, and through everyday leadership. This program exists to recognize and invest in those leaders.

What is the BridgeBuilder Kickstart Program?

The BridgeBuilder Kickstart Program is an initiative that provides early-stage support to grassroots mentors, coaches, and community leaders working directly with youth.

We don’t just fund programs—we partner with people who are creating impact and help them strengthen, grow, and tell their story.

A viaduct is a bridge—something that connects people to opportunity.

A BridgeBuilder is someone who creates that connection.

Every day, mentors and leaders in our communities are helping young people move from uncertainty to confidence, from limited access to real opportunity. This program exists to support those individuals and expand the bridges they’re already building.

Who This Program Is For

Community mentors and leaders
Coaches and youth organizers
Grassroots programs already working with youth
Individuals making a consistent, positive impact in their community

What Selected Programs Receive

Kickstart Funding to support and strengthen your program
Ongoing Partnership with Viaduct Youth Foundation
Increased Visibility through storytelling and content
Impact Documentation (photos, testimonials, video)
End-of-Season Celebration for participating youth

What We Ask in Return

We believe in partnership and accountability. Selected leaders will:

Submit a simple one-page program overview
Participate in periodic check-ins
Provide at least 5 youth testimonials (before and after impact)
Allow authentic content capture (photos/videos of the program in action)

How It Works

Submit your one-page overview
Our board reviews your program
Selected leaders receive a Kickstart Award
Partnership begins and impact is documented
Program concludes with a community celebration

Why It Matters

This program is about more than funding.

It’s about recognition, structure, and opportunity.

By supporting leaders who are already making a difference, we help:

Expand their reach
Strengthen their impact
Create pathways to future funding and growth

When we invest in leaders, we invest in the next generation.

Know a BridgeBuilder?

If you or someone in your community is actively mentoring and guiding youth, we want to hear from you.

Let’s build the bridge together.

Apply Now or nominate a leader