How Did The Bridge Begin? 

The Bridge started in 1991 with the vision of the Watson family. Jesse Watson, an ordained minister, worked as a manager for KCPL for 31 years, and also performed chaplain duties for various rehabilitative institutions in Missouri and Kansas. Beverly Watson ran a child care service for over 30 years while raising four children of her own. 

Having witnessed first-hand the decline of their Swope Parkway neighborhood, the Watsons made a life-changing decision. When a large house next door became a “drug house,” they decided to act and pursue their dream of helping needy children. They purchased the home, renovated it and created their first facility--Bridge Home for Boys (Bridge I). With the success of Bridge I, a second home was donated and refurbished and Bridge II (for girls) began operating in 1998. 

Today, the organization operates around the clock and gives children a level of care and attention unavailable elsewhere. In recognition of their achievements, the Watson family has received numerous awards including the Greater Kansas City Partnership for Children Honor Roll, Heart of America Family Services Outstanding Achievement Award, and Rotarian of the Year Award (Jesse Watson).