New! BRIDGEBuilders
This event is free and no commitment to volunteer or donate is necessary.
Join us for the launch of BRIDGEBuilders
Monday, June 23. Doors at 5:30p
Tomorrow and Tomorrow
Featuring Mia Barela’s state championship TED Talk on Artificial Intelligence in education
Mia Barela will share her award-winning TED Talk, fresh from the Educators Rising NM State Conference, where she took 1st place in the Creative Lecture Competition. Mia will also represent Northern New Mexico at the Educators Rising National Conference in Orlando, Florida, June 26–29, 2025.
A community of mentors, advocates, and investors in the future of education
Education shouldn’t require privilege. Support shouldn’t require wealth.
BRIDGEBuilders is a growing network of people committed to helping students in Northern New Mexico navigate postsecondary education with confidence and connection.
Some of us mentor—offering time, insight, and support.
Some of us give—providing the financial foundation for programs and guidance.
All of us build.
Two ways to become a BRIDGEBuilder:
🧑🏽🏫 Mentor – Volunteer your time and expertise to walk alongside a student as they prepare for and navigate postsecondary education.
💸 Give – Make a significant annual contribution (starting at $500/year) to sustain scholarships, mentorship, and access for students in our region.
Above, Mia Barela and others celebrating at the 2025 Educators Rising competition in March. Mia will present her winning winning performance at the Bridge Building launch on June 23!
Two ways to become a BRIDGEBuilder:
Mentor: Become a BRIDGEBuilders mentor and walk alongside a student as they approach and move through college or training. Mentors are trained and supported by Bridges staff and matched thoughtfully with students who will benefit from adult connection, guidance, and care.
Give: Support the work financially by giving at one of the following levels.
Members who give $500 or more annually are recognized as BRIDGEBuilders and invited to help shape and sustain our long-term impact:
ARCHITECT | $5,000/year (3-year commitment)
ANCHOR | $2,000/year (3-year commitment)
BUILDER | $1,000/year
CONNECTOR | $500/year
These donors receive regular updates, event invitations, and our deepest gratitude.
Other contributions are welcome at any level.
Matching donations up to $20,000!
Why now?
Bridges is launching the First-Gen Summer Institute in partnership with the Davis New Mexico Scholarship. This free, three-day overnight program supports first-generation high school seniors with college application guidance, financial aid support, and a yearlong relationship with a Bridges counselor.
Our first cohort launches this summer. Your time, your care, your contribution — that’s what builds this bridge.
About Bridges Project for Education
Bridges Project for Education is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access to college and vocational training for students of all ages in Taos County and Northern New Mexico. The organization offers free, individualized counseling and guidance on applications, admissions, financial aid, and career pathways.
For more information contact Hannah directly.