DCSD’s Bridge Transition Program Enjoys Unique Partnership with Lone Tree Brewing Company
Lone Tree Brewing Company’s (LTBC) Mike Webster started noticing the young adults who often walked by his business. He soon learned they were students of DCSD’s Bridge Transition Program, a post-secondary program for students with disabilities aged 18-21 who are continuing their studies while learning independent living and pre-employment skills. The Bridge Program operates in the same shopping center as Lone Tree Brewing Company. What happened next was a neighborly connection that turned into a great partnership.
As Mike became more familiar with the Bridge Program, the more he wanted to get involved. LTBC’s first connection with the Bridge Transition Program was sponsoring its car show in August 2021, a fundraiser in the shopping center’s parking lot featuring 60 cars. The Bridge students sold tickets for the show and attendees voted for their favorite car. LTBC sold discounted beer and merchandise and helped raise $9,000. The Bridge Program used the funds for cooking activities and lessons, community outings, and staff appreciation. A portion will also help purchase a Suburban SUV for the program.
After co-hosting a successful car show, LTBC and the Bridge Program partnered to provide students with practical work experience to help them hone their skills for independent living and future employment.
Logan Williams, age 18, is a Bridge student who looks forward to his job at LTBC. His duties include cleaning and wiping down chairs and tables. Not only is Logan gaining life skills he’s also gaining confidence and a sense of pride. Angela Richards, a Douglas County School District Educational Assistant with the Bridge Program accompanies Logan and provides support if needed. “Logan thrives being out in the community,” says Richards. “And, he’s now advocating for himself,” she continued.
Logan enjoys camaraderie, and the LTBC staff enjoys his easygoing manner. Logan’s reward for completing his tasks is complimentary soda or iced tea. Logan attends the Bridge Program five days a week, and is at LTBC for about an hour, twice a week. Currently, five Bridge students are practicing pre-employment skills at LTBC.
Next on tap for Bridge students is the opportunity to help with LTBC’s Car & Bike Show and silent auction, which benefits the Bridge Program.The event, branded as “Great Beer and Sweet Rides,” is Saturday, October 1, from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., at the Lone Tree Brewing Company, 8200 Park Meadows Drive. It’s a fun opportunity to check out cool cars and cold beer. The event is free to attend. The cost to pre-register cars is $30 and $40 the day of the event. Contact Cindy Bradler at 303-437-5918 for more information and to register cars. It turns out neighbors can be great partners indeed!
About Bridge Transition Program
In addition to the academic component, the Bridge Program provides students with opportunities to learn and practice life skills like going shopping, doing basic chores, and using public transportation. Bridge students and their teachers take field trips to the grocery store to learn about meal planning and budgeting. And they practice basic cooking skills in the on-site instructional kitchen. There are also visits to the library to learn how to select and check out books, and scavenger hunts to Park Meadows Mall to become acquainted with the various types of stores.
DCSD operates Transition Bridge Programs in Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker, and Castle Rock. Together, they serve nearly 140 students. To learn more,
visit the Transition Bridge Program.