At the heart of our mission is HOPE:

Housing, Opportunity, Progress, Education

Bridge of Grace aims to help provide HOPE to southeast Fort Wayne residents through Housing, Opportunity, Progress, and Education.

We use asset-based community development to engage the people we serve. Through our initiatives, we facilitate neighbors coming together to take collective action and generate solutions to common obstacles.

Housing

Stabilizing Neighborhoods

Housing

Stabilizing Neighborhoods

Affordable housing has become a crisis in our community. To combat this, Bridge of Grace works to turn neglected houses in southeast Fort Wayne into affordable homes for the families we serve.

By mitigating blighted houses, properties, and vacant lots, we have worked to enhance the quality of life for the Mount Vernon Park neighborhood residents. To further support Mount Vernon Park and the southeast Fort Wayne community as a whole, we want to increase access to affordable housing and economic stability.

We also move residents toward home ownership by offering financial empowerment training.

Since 2016, Bridge of Grace has renovated 33 deteriorating homes. We currently have six homes under construction, as well as six new builds through our partnership with Habitat for Humanity. As we look towards the future, Bridge of Grace has 38 vacant lots ready for us to build new homes!

Opportunity

Developing Economic Opportunities

Closing the Gaps of Opportunity

Revitalizing Our Community

Opportunity and equity are vital components to the success and economic growth of southeast Fort Wayne. Bridge of Grace believes equity is the path to prosperity and strives to close the opportunity gap for the residents of Mount Vernon Park. By implementing economic development strategies, we aim to cultivate local entrepreneurs, retain existing businesses, and create an environment where locally owned businesses can prosper. The opportunity gap in southeast Fort Wayne is prevalent, but it doesn’t have to be.

Social Enterprise Development

Empowering Indigenous Leaders

We believe the impact of social enterprises can change lives. Development is the cornerstone of our mission. We are passionate about supporting and empowering the residents of southeast Fort Wayne in an effort to build stronger and sustainable neighborhoods.

Progress

Improving the Quality of Life

Neighborhood Revitalization

Transforming Our Community

Progress is measured by momentum, and Bridge of Grace is driving the resurgence of the Mount Vernon Park neighborhood. We aim to facilitate the comprehensive, sustained, and replicable revitalization of the southeast Fort Wayne community. We are motivated to improve the quality of life for the residents of southeast Fort Wayne.

Brewer Park

Renewed Neighborhood Momentum

Mount Vernon Park residents desire a beautiful space that celebrates the culture and history of their neighborhood. In response to existing and realized community needs, Bridge of Grace is proud to collaborate on the design and build of Brewer Park.

Our Community Hub

Built to Serve

Through our HOPE Unleashed capital campaign, Bridge of Grace opened the doors of our new facility in June 2024. The building features our offices, community workspace, our Early Years Academy, and a health clinic operated by Alliance Health Centers. Improvements have also been made to our original building that continues to be used for Afterschool programs, neighborhood events, and community outreach.

Education

Building a Strong Foundation for Success

Education is Key

Strong Starts Lead to Strong Successes

Bridge of Grace believes education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty. There is a prevalent opportunity gap for children in Mount Vernon Park. We will champion families through educational initiatives so every child is prepared to start kindergarten and supported through twelfth grade.

Early Years Academy

Unlocking Potential Through Early Childhood Development

Early Years Academy is a high-quality and inclusive developmental center that provides exceptional early care and education for children six weeks through pre-k.

MVP Kids

Championing Our Youth

Bridge of Grace supports and champions the youth of Mount Vernon Park through our Afterschool program, summer camps, mentorship, and MVP Junior Leadership Academy.

Empower Change: Find Your Role Today

Thank you for exploring what Bridge of Grace is all about. If you’re inspired by our work and want to be part of this transformative journey, we invite you to discover the many ways you can help us make a difference. Explore opportunities to get involved and become a catalyst for hope.