Bridge Builders
The Bridge Builders Social Change Cohort aims to connect Lewis & Clark Students with the Immigrant and Refugee Community in Portland Oregon through community partnerships, volunteer opportunities, as well as events and workshops that foster learning and understanding. The Bridge Builders cohort operates on a collective leadership model, where all members bring ideas and opportunities to the table to shape the cohort’s direction and focus.
Program Goals
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Cultural Exchange and Learning
Objective: Promote mutual understanding and cultural exchange between student volunteers and the immigrant/refugee community. -
Awareness and Advocacy
Objective: Raise awareness about immigrant and refugee issues and advocate for their rights and needs. -
Resource Mobilization and Reciprocity
Objective: Support fundraising efforts to provide resources and services for the immigrant/refugee community.
By aligning these goals with the needs of the immigrant and refugee communities, student volunteers can make a meaningful impact while also gaining valuable experience and skills.
Program Overview:
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Volunteering
- Cohort members are encouraged to volunteer 4-8 hours per month
- Cohort members form relationships with organizations and create consistent opportunities for engagement
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Workshops and Dialogues
- Cohort members can be offered dialogue facilitation training to lead their own events
- Cohort members lead workshops and initiatives related to our cause
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Cohort Expansion & Recruitment
- Cohort members are encouraged to work with their friends, family, and neighbors to help cohort initiatives
- The cohort is open to undergraduate and graduate students
Meet Our Bridge Builders Cohort Lead!
Jatniel Sanchez