“In the moment of crisis, the wise build bridges and the foolish build dams.”

-Nigerian Proverb

Building bridges is precisely the mission of Word Is Bond. Based right here in “Bridge City,” Word Is Bond is a community-founded organization that connects Black youth to police officers in meaningful ways, aiming to humanize both sides through shared experiences, and build trust through conversations that address racial inequities.

Founded in 2017, Word Is Bond describes it’s programming as “unapologetically Black.” They believe that to effectively redress racial inequity and build relationships between the Black community and law enforcement, the perspective of the most marginalized and vulnerable must be brought to the forefront. Youth voices are incorporated at every level of the organization from strategic planning, to program development and event planning, so that this organization truly and effectively serves the community. What started as a summer program has grown into a full year-round operation that fosters critical dialogue, education, and leadership skills for young Black men to make a positive difference in their communities and their lives.

Among their programs, Word Is Bond offers a six-week paid professional development internship called Rising Leaders, and organizes the Young Leaders Council - a community mentoring program that builds civic engagement and community among high-school-aged Black young men. During the month of July please join us in donating to this inspiring organization, helping to build bridges in our community.