Main Campus Programs

Since 1986, our main campus has served as an oasis of safety in the inner city at 8th and Pearl Streets, where some of Jacksonville’s highest rates of poverty, teen pregnancy, and drop outs occur.

Lack of positive resources in inner city core neighborhoods is an overwhelming problem for at risk youth.  The time of the day for highest juvenile crime rates is after school between 3 and 6 PM. Negative peer pressure, idle time, exposure to violence and hopelessness result in drug use, failure and crime. A 2007 JCCI study on violence recommended prevention through more positive activities and role models for youth.

Our Students: Springfield Campus

• 651 children served
• Age range: 6 -18 years
• 93% live at or below poverty level
• 82% live with single parent/caregiver
• 98% African American
• 50% at risk for dropping-out*

* “Learning to Finish,” A National Initiative of the Pew Partnership for Civic Change

Our Measurements for Success: 2006-2007

• 99% avoided pregnancy
• 96% of seniors graduated
• 92% bound for college/specialized training
• 48 scholarships awarded by The Bridge
• 87.8% achieved grade promotion
• 70% improved school commitment (less than 10 absences)
• 80% of parents/caregivers affirm safe learning environment
• 100+ youth gainfully employed during year and/or summer
• 99% Bridge program participants with no arrests

Current Program Costs: Springfield Campus (Academic year)

• 651 children served
• 195 days/year of service
• 4 hours/day
• $1,935 cost/youth/year
• $9.92 cost/day
• $2.48 cost/hour