For the past two decades, Building Bridges has been dedicated to empowering and guiding young men between the ages of 14 and 18 through various challenges, such as substance use, defiant conduct, failing grades, learning disorders, and behavioral issues. Our well-accredited program takes a comprehensive approach to address these challenges, incorporating family involvement, individual counseling, wilderness trips, recreational therapy, and 12-Step recovery.
One of the unique aspects of our program is its flexibility, as the length of stay varies based on the individual’s needs and progress. Young men progress through different program levels, and if required, they can attend our on-site school, which is fully accredited by Cognia, a nationally renowned accrediting agency. This ensures that credits earned are transferable to high schools in every state, allowing our students to benefit from our therapeutic environment while continuing their academic careers. We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of curricula, allowing us to tailor each student’s timetable to suit their academic requirements, abilities, and future aspirations.
Academics and activities play an integral role in our program. During the regular school year, each day is filled with a variety of engaging and enriching activities. Students gather as a group each weekday morning before heading to school, and after school, they return to the apartment to complete their homework assignments. Evenings are filled with various activities, from group discussions to town meetings to neighborhood events like basketball games in the school gym. Weekends are equally diverse, with a day of labor treatment on Saturday, followed by an enjoyable activity like watching a movie. Sundays are reserved for leisure therapy, which may include paintball, softball, gym visits, or skiing at a nearby resort.
Family involvement is a cornerstone of our program. We recognize the importance of family support in the recovery process, and parents receive weekly phone calls from counselors to stay updated on their child’s progress. Regular conference calls involving parents, students, and counselors provide a platform for open communication and joint problem-solving. Throughout the year, we schedule family visits, allowing parents to experience some of the local activities and surroundings.
Nestled on over 45 serene acres in northwestern Montana, Building Bridges provides a picturesque mountainside setting for our young men. Our brand-new residential complex offers comfortable accommodations, spacious living and eating facilities, and a professional kitchen. The property includes private river access, where students can enjoy water skiing, tubing, or simply plunge in after a hot day. Our location strikes a perfect balance, combining the supportive peer culture of a larger facility with the close-knit relationships that thrive in a less congested setting.
At Building Bridges, we are committed to providing a nurturing and empowering environment for young men to heal, grow, and thrive. Through our comprehensive and personalized approach, we aim to equip them with the tools and skills needed to overcome challenges and embrace a brighter future.
