"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." — Margaret Mead
The Inspiration: Building a Bridge to Opportunity
The foundation of Bridge to Opportunity is inspired by a deep, personal hope: that everyone, in their lifetime, has access to the kind of unwavering support, wisdom, and mentorship that I was blessed to receive. My journey, and this project, are directly inspired by two profound influences, mentors, advisors, and caretakers: my Nana and Grandpa, Cora and Dave Miller.
They embody what I call the ultimate "team of teams." Their strategy and execution—not just in their professional careers, but in how they navigated life and guided mine—provided me with immeasurable knowledge for my own adult adventures. Their commitment to others serves as the blueprint for what Bridge to Opportunity aims to achieve.
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I have been blessed in my lifetime to have experiences under my belt that have been there for more than half of my 37 years of life, that some people would and could only dream of. My history and childhood was impressive as I was fortunate to have lived all over the world from Japan and Europe, to Alaska, Maine, Florida, where now the Midwest has called itself my home.
Throughout my life, I’ve walked in many shoes, sang many songs, worn many hats, but there is one hat and one pair of shoes and only one song that remains and will always be there. I am an Artist. A Creator of expression, movement, words, thoughts, feelings, and everything there are no words for at all.
I could no longer allow myself to hide that part of me while I tried to survive at a dead end job barely making it by losing my spark a little more every single day. What would I have to leave my son when the time came? What will he remember me for the most? When will my parents be proud of me? Will they ever understand who I truly am? How can I show them before THAT day comes?
So you see, I have no time to waste and little resistance accompanying the necessity from my inner creator as that part of me has been screaming to be let out for such a very long time now.
The Ripple Effect
A Legacy of Community and Strategy
Fundraising Queen and Execution: My Nana, Cora, the "Fundraising Queen," is a master of securing resources and achieving desired outcomes. They even have a coined and trademarked secret to fundraising—a secret that speaks to the power of a clear vision, strategic planning, and consistent execution. This expertise in turning a goal into a reality is the strategic backbone of Bridge to Opportunity. We believe, as they do, that having the right resources is the first step in creating opportunity.
Non-Profit Commitment: Both Nana and Grandpa have been vital members of countless community groups and committees, all dedicated to the non-profit cause of creating a better community. Their sustained, hands-on commitment demonstrated that true influence is built through service, partnership, and a focus on collective success.
It is with immense pride and admiration that I have been fortunate enough to learn, fumble, and ultimately succeed under their wing in the professional world. Bridge to Opportunity is my way of taking the wisdom, the strategies, and the deep dedication to community they instilled in me and paying it forward. The organization is a dedication to their legacy—a platform designed to provide others with the same invaluable resources, mentorship, and support that Cora and Dave Miller so freely gave to me.
