The Bridge Podcast

The Bridge: The Arc of Tri-Cities/Community Champions program ft. BreAnna Vaughn & CJ

In this episode, we sit down with BreAnna Vaughn, Community Champions Lead at The Arc of Tri-Cities, and CJ, a participant in the new Community Champions program. They share how the program is creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and become more engaged in the community. Join us as we discuss inclusion, personal growth, and the impact Community Champions is making throughout the Tri-Cities. www.arcoftricities.com www.justserve.org/arcoftricities breannav@arcoftricities.com

The Bridge: My Friend's Place & Our Closet Tri-Cities ft. Heather Shindehite & Julia Henry

In this conversation of The Bridge, we sit with Heather Shindehite, director of My Friends' Place homeless teen shelter, and Julia Henry, Miss Tri-Cities 2026 and founder of Our Closet Tri-Cities, to discuss supporting homeless and vulnerable youth, building community partnerships, and how compassion can change lives in Tri-Cities. Join us in this inspiring conversation with two dynamic women! My Friends' Place/Safe Harbor https://www.safeharborsupportcenter.org/ Facebook "My Friends Place" JustServe @ My Friends' Place www.justserve.org/projects/b06d4103-dbf7-4d5b-9b93-794b68454b14 & Julia Henry Instagram @our_closet_tricities & @misstricitieswa JUSTSERVE.ORG

The Bridge: Freedom Kits of Yakima ft. Stephanie Wilson & Toni McBean

Today we spotlight Freedom Kits of Yakima and the life-changing impact of reusable feminine hygiene kits for women & girls living in poverty around the world. We discuss how access to basic menstrual supplies affects education, health, confidence, and opportunity — and how volunteers are helping provide dignity and hope one kit at a time. From sewing and assembling kits to building community awareness, this conversation highlights how small acts of service can create lasting change for girls and young womeneverywhere. www.freedomkits.org Facebook:"Freedom Kits of Yakima" Instagram: @freedomkitsofyakima www.JustServe.org https://www.justserve.org/projects/b2f747b6-55b6-45e2-93b6-d05414ce0aa2

The Bridge: Columbia Basin Dive Rescue ft. Caleb Farmer & Mark Morton

In this episode of THE BRIDGE, we sit down with members of Columbia Basin Dive Rescue to talk about the reality of underwater rescue operations, the teamwork behind every mission, and the volunteers who make it all possible — from dive training to critical maintenance and support roles, and finally to the emotional toll. This conversation highlights the people who quietly serve our region during some of life’s most difficult moments and reminds us that true community is built by those willing to show up when it matters most. www.cbdr.org Facebook - "Columbia Basin Dive Rescue" Instagram @columbiabasindiverescue www.justserve.org #TheBridge #ColumbiaBasinDiveRescue #FirstResponders #Community #PublicService #DiveRescue #EmergencyResponse #VolunteerService

The Bridge: RSD Early Learning Center & Second Harvest ft. Julie McDougall & Jonna Jorgensen

In this episode of The Bridge, we sit down with Julie McDougall, Principal of the Richland School District Early Learning Center, and Jonna Jorgensen, Senior Leader at Second Harvest, to talk about a powerful new partnership supporting local families. Together, they discuss the growing need for accessible food resources, the role of community partnerships, and a new pilot initiative—the Zilch program—bringing food distribution directly to families at the Early Learning Center.ELC - www.elc.rsd.eduSecond Harvest - www.2-harvest.orgJustServe Link - www.justserve.org/projects/489355ca-ec14-4c32-bebb-6907b7c5cf7cwww.Justserve.orgWhen families have reliable access to food, children are better prepared to learn, grow, and thrive. This collaboration is about meeting families where they are and removing barriers with dignity and care.