About Us
BRIDGES was founded in 1987 under the name Rockland Independent Living Center (RILC). We are a community-based, peer-driven, cross-disability, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advocacy and leadership on behalf of people with disabilities. BRIDGES is one of 41 Independent Living Centers (ILC) operating in New York State under the auspices of New York State Education Department (NYSED). Each ILC adheres to a national philosophy of Independent Living (IL) that seeks to empower individuals with disabilities to make autonomous decisions regarding all aspects of living and advocating to ensure equal access to opportunities desired.
BRIDGES core services of Independent Living
In accordance with the IL philosophy, BRIDGES is governed by a Board of Directors that has majority representation of people with disabilities. As an ILC, BRIDGES provides essential core services of Independent Living.
These include Following
Peer Counseling
Independent Living Skills Training
Information & Referral
Individual & Systems Advocacy
Transition Supports
Vision & Mission
BRIDGES Core Values
Value Statement
SYNERGY
BRIDGES believes individuals working together for the mission and vision of the organization is more powerful than the efforts of individuals working on their own.
DIGNITY & WORTH
BRIDGES acknowledges and honors the inherent right and value of each person and treats people in a caring and respectful fashion.
ACCEPTANCE
BRIDGES values diversity and inclusion and embraces differences in others.
EMPOWERMENT
BRIDGES encourages self-determination, choice and autonomy.
LEADERSHIP
BRIDGES champions efforts that lead to change that enhances quality of life within the disability community.
2024 Impact Statement
Non-Discrimination
BRIDGES does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.
BRIDGES provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees who need them for
medical or religious reasons, as required by law.
Meet our Board of Directors
Opportunities to serve
2024 Impact Statement
