Social Community for Neurodiverse Young Adults in Duluth, MN
When you’re neurodivergent, it can be tough to socialize and make friends. That’s why Bridging Hearts was founded; it’s our goal to assist neurodiverse young adults in Duluth to build connections with one another. Whether you have a cognitive delay, a learning disability, autism, or any other developmental difference, our program can help you to build lifelong friendships in a safe and welcoming environment.
Social Opportunities for Neurodiverse Young Adults
Bridging Hearts can be a great help to neurodiverse young adults in the Duluth area who would like to get more involved with social activities and meet people in their age group. By becoming a member, you’ll gain access to social opportunities which can improve your communication, independence, and life skills while having a great time.
When you’re a member of Bridging Hearts, you’ll be able to join a safe, private network that allows you to socialize with other neurodiverse adults and form lasting friendships in a comfortable environment. In addition, you’ll be able to participate in many different social events, such as dancing, camping, and boating.
Make Friends in an Environment Where You’re Welcome
For neurodiverse young adults living in Duluth and the greater North Shore area, Bridging Hearts can be a great opportunity for socialization. Connect with us today to discover more about our program in the greater Duluth area!
Carol Perrault
As Director of Bridging Hearts, I would like to welcome you to our website. We have a lot to offer, so dig in and let’s help you decide if Bridging Hearts is the right fit for you.
In 2016, our son Matt had been out of school for several years and found success through a variety of employment opportunities. We were working hard to set him up with a meaningful job with a future. However, something was missing for Matt. His friendships seemed fleeting and were not substantive. When a friend suggested we explore Bridging Hearts, we were all-in almost immediately.
As I volunteered more and more, I soon discovered that helping others form friendships was rather easy. Bridging Hearts is a support system, but it’s our members who put in the work needed to make and keep friends. They are the foundation of what we do.
I see a bright future for Bridging Hearts. It seems like our circle of friends is expanding every day. We believe everyone deserves to have meaningful friendships. We’ll continue to help our members feel a sense of belonging and hope for a future which includes friends and social experiences.
Teresa Johnson
In 2016, our daughter Mariah graduated from high school and looked forward to a decent job, a future full of creative aspirations and time spent hanging out with friends. However, her friendship circle remained small. Though she had a lot to offer, very few local opportunities were available to meet other young adults in her peer group. She deserved a chance.
After two years of fruitless searching, we decided to start an organization where people in Mariah’s peer group could meet on a regular basis to share fun activities and form safe online social connections.
On August 3, 2019, the Duluth News Tribune was willing to share our vision. We hoped this would attract other individuals in similar situations. It was at this time that Denise Martin, the founder of Bridging Hearts, was guided to our story. She was just like us 15 years earlier! We soon discovered that our visions were so similar and decided to continue meeting.
Over time, we were officially asked to become the first chapter of Bridging Hearts. It was a heart bridging moment and we gladly accepted. We’re excited to see what the future holds for many young adults in Duluth, MN who have a lot to offer a friend. They just need a chance.
Bridging Hearts is a nonprofit organization with a board composed of community members. Our board members are all volunteers and represent parents of members, as well as community members who have dedicated and volunteered time to ensure our mission is honored.