It's been 15 years - a long time ago! - since I graduated from Bridge of Hope. One of the key things for me is the bond I shared - and still share - with my mentoring group [from Hinkletown Mennonite Church]. All the other things have been great - parenting tips, budgeting, helping me get a car - all those things were wonderful. But that bond we share is a bond that can never be broken.
The really neat thing is now I can give back. I was a Bridge of Hope mentor 2 or 3 years ago. It was a really good experience - seeing a woman with her children, seeing the sadness at times and yet seeing the joys, celebrating with her when she graduated nursing school and seeing her gain confidence.
Currently I serve on the advisory board for Bridge of Hope National. I can offer my experience being a participant of Bridge of Hope in the past. I've been through that experience and walked that journey, so I have something to offer that someone else may not. That's really exciting for me.
As we all know, there are so many single mothers out there! Since I graduated from Bridge of Hope and have seen what it's done for me and my life, it's developed in me a passion for single mothers. I want to get the word out so people understand there's a need and we can be part of meeting that need. That's my biggest thing right now, getting that word out!
Michelle Beamer, Graduate
Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties (Pa.)