Please text BHP to 321.655.3869 for more information.
The
Bridgehouse
Project
An innovative initiative to refurbish and repurpose an abandoned home in Orange County, Florida, with the objective of providing practical, hands-on training to Job Corps students in electrical, plumbing, facilities maintenance, carpentry, flooring, and glazing trades.
The Vision
Many graduates of the federal government's Department of Labor Job Corps program, mostly underpriviliged young men ages 18 - 24, find themselves starting jobs unrelated to their trades program due to a lack of relevant employment opportunities and their lack of practical experience.
The Bridgehouse aims to change that by offering immersive, trade-specific training in a supportive environment, turning these students into better prepared candidates for employers. Our objective is to encourage these youth to excel in their trades, creating a brighter career for themselves.

1

Hands-on Learning
The program will provide practical, real-world experience in various trades, in a real home with real challenges, allowing participants to develop valuable skills in a supportive atmosphere. The emphasis will be on experiential learning, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the demands of their chosen fields.

2

Community Impact
By equipping the students with the necessary expertise, the project seeks to create a pool of skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to local economies and fill the demand for trade-specific jobs, benefitting both the individuals and the communities they serve.

3

Transitional Housing with a Savings Account
(for Apprentices)
For students that are offered an Apprenticeship with Fidelis Repairs or Sunshine Restore, the main barrier for these youth to successfully start working is the lack of credit or savings to move into their own apartment near their work location. The Bridgehouse will solve this problem by providing the Apprentice with 3 months of housing with the "rent" being deducted as 50% of their weekly pay and placed in a savings account. In 3 months, they will have enough savings for a security deposit and first month's rent.
Training and Mentorship
The program will feature personalized mentorship and guidance, ensuring that each participant receives individualized support to thrive in their respective trade. Through partnerships with experienced professionals, the students will gain valuable insights, advice, and practical wisdom that extends beyond the classroom.
Training will be provided by the American Vocational Academy which is accredited to provide vocational certifications by the Florida Department of Education. This partnership will provide the Job Corps students with additional certifications before entering the workforce.
Life-Skills Development
In addition to trade-specific training, the curriculum will include group sessions and individual interactions that focus on essential life skills such as financial literacy, communication, time management, and leadership. This holistic approach aims to prepare the students for a successful transition into the workforce and independent living.
Financial Literacy
Providing students with real-life skills and knowledge to manage their finances responsibly.
Effective Communication
Developing interpersonal and professional communication skills with customers and employers.
Time Management
Mastering the art of prioritizing tasks and optimizing productivity.
Personal & Professional Development Through Hands-on, Practical Education
Collaborative Partnerships
The success of The Bridgehouse Project relies on collaboration with local and national businesses, vocational institutions, government bodies and community organizations. These partnerships will provide crucial support, resources, and opportunities for real-world integration, ensuring a seamless transition for the students into the workforce.
Employers
We will secure sponsorship from local and national employers who are seeking certified, educated, and prepared talent to join their workforce.
Industry Partners
Sponsors from this sector include insurance companies, suppliers, and vendors, all who are the final beneficiaries of an improved and available talent pool in the industry.
Supporters
Securing financial resources and hard assets from government bodies and foundations will provide the required seed funds to launch the program.
What We Need to Get Started

1

Real Estate: An abandoned or donated property that will be fully restored to become The Bridgehouse
We would ask that Orange County or City of Orlando governments (or a private foundation) allocate a property that would benefit from restoration, which would also help beautify the area where the property is located.

2

Funds: The seed money to restore and equip the property, contract the educational providers, and transport the students
This is where foundations geared towards improving the lives of underprivileged youth would support a worthy cause or where national constructions firms and insurance companies could provide funding to support industry workforce improvements.

3

Expansion: We will pursue federal grants from the Department of Labor to strengthen and expand the program's offerings and reach
This will allow us to create Bridghouses near the Job Corps facilities in Pinellas County, Duval County and Miami-Dade, ensuring that the impact is seen throughout all of Florida.
Thank you.
Consider contributing to this important and impactful program to help us improve young lives, vocational careers, industry quality, labor standards and our Florida communities.
Please text BHP to 321.655.3869 for more information.