EVERYONE HAS SOMETHING TO CONTRIBUTE

We help people discover what it is, develop it, and create opportunities from it.

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

Talent is everywhere. Opportunity Isn't.

We don’t begin by asking what someone lacks.
We begin by asking what they might create.

Everyone has something to contribute. 

Everyone deserves the opportunity to discover what that might be.

Built for Our Community

We serve the diverse members of the Los Angeles County community, providing the opportunity and encouragement needed to discover their unique gifts and build a future of independence.

Youth & Teens

Empowering young people in Los Angeles County to explore their creativity and develop the skills needed for future success.

Foster Youth

Providing a safe, encouraging environment for foster youth to discover their confidence and develop their gifts.

Individuals with Abilities

Inclusive programs for neurodivergent young people and individuals with different abilities, focusing on growth and connection.

Underserved Families

Supporting families facing financial barriers with creative skill development and entrepreneurial opportunities for greater independence.

Discover It. Develop It. Share It.

CREATE

Painting, ceramics, handmade products, and creative workshops. We help you learn how to create something with your own hands and develop work you are proud of.

EARN

Entrepreneurship and practical selling education. We teach you how to photograph your work, describe products, understand pricing, market your creations, and sell online.

MOVE

Inclusive dance and movement programming through our signature youth program: BIG SISTER IN ME. We create a safe, encouraging, and inclusive space for growth.

Big Sister In Me

Dance is the tool. Connection is the foundation. Confidence is the goal. The whole person is the mission.

Discover Big Sister In Me

From Discovery to Growth

Bridge Forward creates the bridge. We help you discover what you can create, develop your abilities, and build confidence and connection.

Discover

Explore your creative potential and identify the skills you want to develop.

Learn

Develop your abilities through our accessible creative education programs.

Create

Bring your ideas to life through hands-on workshops and creative projects.

Sell

Learn how to market your work and use accessible platforms to reach your audience.

Grow

Build confidence and independence through real-world entrepreneurial opportunities.

Built from Experience

For over two decades, Marcia Torres-Leija and Mark A. Leija have dedicated their careers to the art of storytelling and television production. Their journey began with a simple belief:

“People don’t want to be defined only by what they need. They want an opportunity to show what they can do.”

Families & Guardians

We partner with families to ensure every young person has the opportunity to discover their gifts. Our programs are designed to support your child's growth, confidence, and creative development in a safe and inclusive environment.

EXPLORE PROGRAMS

Referral Partners

For social workers, foster-care professionals, and community organizations. We provide a clear pathway for referral and support, ensuring that every young person is connected to the resources they need to thrive.

REFER A YOUNG PERSON

THERE’S A PLACE FOR YOU HERE.

PARTICIPATE

HELP

GIVE

Everyone has something to contribute.

Let’s build a community where everyone gets the chance.