Our History
A dream realized:
Bridges of Belonging, Inc. established an Adult Family Home (AFH) in the La Crosse area to serve persons with developmental disabilities. The inspiration for this home is based on the work of l’Arche International, which fully embraces the spiritual and human dimensions of life with dignity. The home provides a family-like environment where residents share meals, responsibilities, prayer and celebrate together. Though rooted in Christian values, the home welcomes individuals from any denomination.
Bridges of Belonging for a Better Future
2005
We introduced our dream to members of the community. At this time we identified needs in our community, along with avenues of support, and we were not wrong; our community wanted to help us make our dream come true.
2006-2008
In April of 2006, a 12-member board was created. A year later in April 2007, we were officially incorporated as Bridges of Belonging, Inc, and by August 2008, we received our 501(c)(3) status as a non-profit organization. Since this time, we have partnered with the City of La Crosse and County of La Crosse to spread awareness of our mission.
2012-2013
On July 15, 2012, we broke ground and began building our one-story, four-bedroom AFH, which blends into the existing neighborhood. Our dream became real in January 2013 when “The Dwelling Place” was completed and open to housing our family of four adults with disabilities.
2020 - current
In 2020, the Board worked diligently with Catholic Charities to secure the best possible care for the residents by interviewing several qualified agencies in an administrative transition, and contracted Independent Living Choices - a La Crosse-based agency serving multiple Adult Family Homes in the region. Known for their compassionate and person-centered approach to care, ILC is in complete alignment with our founding core values and mission and committed to aging-in-place for our residents. Additionally, they have retained the current staff, ensuring residents the continuity of care they are familiar with.
Building Bridges
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and support our home. Your generous donation will fund our non-profit and faith-based mission. Thank you.
