Connected Lives

The word community carries several meanings including a “group sharing common characteristics or interests.” These characteristics can vary widely - social interests, ethnic backgrounds, hobbies, athletic endeavors, geographic location, and more.

Why do people identify with and seek to be part of a community? Human beings are wired to “do life” with others. Being part of a community means being connected to others and experiencing a sense of belonging that enriches their lives. That sense of belonging begins with the common interests people share with one another, but grows stronger when their relationships with one another deepen as they work, play and learn together.

Having a disability doesn’t preclude an individual from building community and experiencing this sense of belonging. At LifeBridge Partnership, we work to ensure individuals with disabilities have opportunities to discover and engage with their communities. Adults participating in our Out & About program explore the St. Louis recreation and leisure scene, learn to use community resources, and connect with friends. Through after school enrichment and day camps, youth clients enjoy community field trips, make new friends, and experience unique recreation activities.

When we focus on and appreciate what we have in common with someone else, we open the door to understanding the differences that also exist. To that end, I invite you to expand your community by joining our team of volunteers. Whether you like sports, shopping, crafting, festivals, museums…

Come “do life” and build community with us. Learn more about our volunteer program at: https://www.lifebridgestl.org/volunteer

Karen Schuster, CEO