Bridging the Gap Advocacy: Cultivating Potential & Community
Do you know about a local nonprofit that’s helping transform the lives of children and families in Laurens County? Bridging the Gap Advocacy is on a mission to help children and their parents discover their natural talents and gifts. By promoting faith, education, health and wellness, job training, and employment initiatives, this organization aims to bridge the gap between aspirations and potential.
Recently, Bridging the Gap Advocacy was awarded a grant by the City of Laurens, recognizing its vision and commitment to the community. Under the leadership of Founder Calvin Whitmire, and with the support of dedicated volunteers like Dr. Jerman Disasa, Mr. Harold Ligon, Mrs. Carolyn Ligon, Mrs. Susan Cooke, Ms. Shirley Jefferson, and Mr. Sam Moore, the organization has made significant strides in fulfilling its mission. Calvin Whitmire often says, "Every Child Has A Gift That Needs To Be Discovered, And Then The World Will Open Up To Them." His belief in the potential of every child is the driving force behind their initiatives.
In a recent visit by Chamber Team Members, Graysen Martin, Communications and Marketing Coordinator, and Christian Taylor, Tourism Marketing Manager, they witnessed the joy and enthusiasm of children planting vegetable seeds in the center's garden during their summer camp. This garden, plowed by a remarkable 98-year-old volunteer named Mr. Eugene Coleman, symbolizes the growth and nurturing spirit of the organization. The children are eagerly looking forward to harvesting their vegetables later this summer, marking another step in their journey of discovery and growth. Bridging the Gap Advocacy Community Center became very intentional about reaching out to students with different abilities during this year’s summer camp. They devoted over half of our available slots for this cause and the students flourished in Agriculture, Social Engagement, Public Speaking, and Academic Progress.
Following a successful summer camp, the after-school program will launch on August 1st. The after-school program is held from 3:00 - 6:00 PM.
This group is currently looking forward to their field trip to Eudora Wildlife Safari Farm in Sally, SC on Thursday, July 18th 2024. There are 20 slots still available, if you're interested in joining them, contact Calvin Whitmire. The tickets are $60 per person or if you bring your EBT card or Snap card it will cost $40.
Exciting new programming services are on the horizon! Bridging the Gap Advocacy is collaborating with the school district and Laurens CPW to introduce a new cycling program. Sanders Middle School, led by Principal Josh Dawkins, is the pilot for the Outride Cycling Program, a program designed to help kids deal with stress, mental health, anxiety, social skills,and increase focusing to that leads to better reading and writing skills.
Calvin Whitmire emphasizes, "Love everyone where they are until we eventually Love them where we want them to be." This inclusive and supportive philosophy guides all of Bridging the Gap Advocacy's programs and initiatives. The organization continues to inspire and empower the community, ensuring that every child and parent can reach their full potential.
If you are interested in getting involved, donating, or learning more, visit the website at: http://bridgingthegapadvocacy.org.