Experience Our Mission as a Volunteer
At LifeBridge Partnership, our mission is simple but powerful: building bridges to a life of social well-being for individuals with disabilities. This represents opportunities for connection, confidence-building, and community life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We often talk about belonging. We design programs around it. We measure outcomes connected to it. But there is only one way to truly understand it—one way to feel it in real time rather than just read about it:
Step into it as a volunteer.
When you volunteer, the mission stops being an idea and becomes an experience.
You see it in the moments participants walk into a bowling alley and are greeted by others. You hear it in the laughter that erupts during a game night. You feel it when someone who was hesitant to try something new finds the courage to step forward because of the encouragement and steady presence of the person beside them.
Volunteers don’t just “help out.” They become part of the bridge.
They sit at dinner tables during community outings and spark conversations that turn strangers into friends. They offer a calm reminder about safety while navigating a busy sidewalk. They celebrate seemingly small wins—ordering independently, trying a new activity, introducing themselves to someone new—that are actually very big wins.
And something unexpected happens in the process.
Volunteers discover that belonging goes both ways.
Many share that they signed up thinking they would be giving their time. What they didn’t anticipate was how much they would receive in return: perspective, gratitude, and meaningful relationships. They witness how consistent support helps someone expand their comfort zone. They leave each event reminded that community is strongest when everyone is included.
Reading about inclusion is inspiring. Donating to support programs is impactful. Sharing our story spreads awareness. But volunteering immerses you in the heart of the work. It connects you with participants as they build friendships, practice social skills, and engage in the broader community with confidence.
If you have ever wondered what LifeBridge Partnership truly feels like—if you have ever wanted to understand, not just support, our purpose—consider volunteering for a day of camp, an afternoon at Leaders Club, or Out & About event. Because there is no better way to experience our mission than to walk alongside our participants. Learn more @ www.lifebridgestl.org.
Karen Schuster, CEO