Bridging the Gap (BTG) is a welcoming low barrier community resource center. We support individuals navigating poverty, and those facing challenges such as substance abuse disorder, mental health struggles, or adjusting to a life in a new country. Rather than changing people's lives for them, we walk alongside them offering support, respect and space to bridge the gap toward stability, connection, and well-being. 

​

Bridging the Gap is a nonprofit ministry of Emmanuel Lutheran Episcopal Church and partner program of United Way of Kennebec Valley. 

​

Mission & Vision

The mission of Bridging the Gap is to help people become the healthiest version of themselves by connecting them to basic needs and community resources and by providing opportunities for meaningful volunteerism and social connection.

​

The vision of Bridging the Gap is a community in which everyone is given the opportunity to thrive and live with dignity.

 

Core Values

• Dignity: All people have the right to essential dignity.

• Inclusivity: Everyone is welcome and is valuable.

• Love: Loving one another means doing what is in the other’s best interest. Sometimes this means creating limits and saying “no”.

• Empowerment: We encourage interdependence over dependence. In the long run, lending a hand up is more effective than giving a hand out. Although sometimes a person needs a hand out in order to receive a hand up.

• Acceptance: Seeing beyond fear– our own and other’s– is part of a healthy community.

• Safety: A welcoming, safe and inclusive environment is key to our vision and mission.

• Social Connection: Healthy social connection supports growth and change.

• Community Engagement: Being involved in community builds trust and understanding and leads to a more vibrant society.

• Collaboration: Building partnerships and sharing resources generates community growth.