Gaining New Perspectives
According to Denny Heck, Lieutenant Governor of Washington, “Nearly one in four Washingtonians have ceased communication with either a friend or family member due to political differences.” Bridge of Hope aims to support and provide hope for individuals and organizations striving to bridge the divide caused by toxic polarization. The ability to engage in respectful disagreement as citizens is crucial to our future.
Every individual possesses a story and experiences that shape their opinions and perspectives on important matters.
Bridge of Hope - How it Works
Building Bridges
Bridge of Hope inspires and equips our community to have constructive conversations with those of differing views and life experiences around what matters most to people. The framework used is Reflective Structured Dialogue®. A method refined through Essential Partners’ thirty-five years of dialogue work. Bridge of Hope is connected to their extensive network of practice.
Get Involved
How to Get Started?
Bridge of Hope fosters community cohesion by facilitating dialogues on local issues. We invite you to participate in our monthly online demonstrations or request a dialogue in your area. Additionally, we offer volunteer facilitators training to enhance understanding and improve communication skills, which are beneficial in both personal and professional contexts.
Our Method
The dialogue method used is called Reflective Structured Dialogue® developed through Essential Partners thirty-five years of work with communities across and the country and in the world. The method increases understanding and trust and fosters cohesion among the participants as they address complex issues.
Become a Bridge Builder
Why should you make a commitment?
In an era marked by cultural divisiveness and polarization, the role of a Bridge Builder has never been more crucial. Committing to be a Bridge Builder means dedicating oneself to fostering unity and understanding within diverse communities. It involves connecting with individuals who hold different views or possess varied life experiences, and striving to build trust and enhance communication between groups with opposing perspectives.
A Bridge Builder is someone who aims to connect with people who hold different views or have diverse life experiences. They assist people and groups in building trust and enhancing communication between those with opposing perspectives. They link people's talents and resources to larger causes. Bridge builders seek shared interests, common ground, and points of connection. They connect with others by listening carefully and asking insightful questions. They are known for their courage, curiosity, and humility.
In a time of cultural divisiveness and polarization, it is important to show a commitment to being a bridge builder. This dedication can give others hope and motivate communities to engage with one another constructively.
If you are committed to these behaviors, join us as a Bridge Builder. As a Bridge Builder, I pledge to:
- Take action
- Invite others to join
- Actively listen with curiosity
- Avoid seeing others as "the enemy"
- Encourage open dialogue
- Promote empathy
- Take a broad, objective view of oneself and others
- Be flexible in changing exclusionary or ineffective behavior patterns
- Keep promises and act with integrity
- Be humble, authentic, and inspire trust in others
As Bridge Builders we are committed to continually learn and hone our skills. There is always much to learn about how to effectively connect with people and how to support others in their experience of building bridges. The following is a list of resources and opportunities to learn. Some are ideas, reflective exercises, or opportunities to grow. Much of the content is gleaned from Essential Partners as well as Y-USA.
How the Y and Other Local Organizations are Combating Toxic Polarization
October 16, 2024
With toxic polarization in mind organizations such as the One America Movement are working to combat the sentiment of division through dialogue and community engagement events.
On September 14, the Y along with other local Pierce County groups came together for the “Faith Over Division” Tour hosted by One America Movement.
Expanding the Support for Bridge of Hope
October 11, 2024
“Bridge of Hope is a mindset: you can be a person who builds bridges of dialogue, relating and staying curious about one another, teaching a different way of empathy, and socially listening to and talking through it.” said Janele Nelson, Association Mission Director.
In collaboration with Essential Partners, the Y trains volunteers to be facilitators of Reflective Structure Dialogue. We give them the tools to engage in conversations that can often be divisive and difficult to navigate.