01 · BELONGING
We Create Space
We build a supportive sisterhood through mentorship, meaningful relationships, wellness, and a community where young women are seen and heard.
Des Moines, Iowa · Established 2022
Exposure. Access.
Experience.
We believe in opportunity and access. Project Bridging equips young women with the mentorship, education, leadership development, and real-world experiences to discover their potential and lead meaningful change.
A few words about us
Built for young women. Rooted in community. Focused on their future.
Project Bridging is the signature youth development initiative of Bridging Youth Advancement & Resource Programs. We create culturally affirming spaces where underserved, underrepresented, and under-resourced young women can build confidence, strengthen their voices, access opportunities, and develop the tools to lead.
02 · OPPORTUNITY
We Expand Access
We connect young women to learning, career exploration, leadership training, resources, and experiences beyond their everyday environments.
03 · LEADERSHIP
We Equip Changemakers
We help mentees strengthen their decision-making, communication, character, and capacity to influence and lead change.
Our approach
Access is the beginning. Leadership is the outcome we work toward.
Our pathway connects consistent support to meaningful learning and community impact. Each stage is designed to help young women grow from discovering where they belong to using their voice and skills to lead.
01
Access
Open doors to opportunities and resources.
02
Belonging
Build trust, relationships, and identity.
03
Empowerment
Develop confidence and practical skills.
04
Leadership
Practice voice, responsibility, and initiative.
05
Community Impact
Turn learning into action and service.
Our work
Four ways we show up for young women.
Signature program
Project Bridging Mentorship
Ongoing support, sisterhood, identity development, positive relationships, and guidance for young women in grades 5–12.
Education & development
Bee University
Learning opportunities in leadership, financial literacy, STEM, critical thinking, wellness, life skills, and college and career readiness.
Health & wellbeing
Thynk Pynk
Intergenerational wellness conversations and experiences supporting self-awareness, emotional wellbeing, confidence, and healthy decision-making.
Resources & dignity
Project Pocketbook + Supply the Hive
Initiatives addressing menstrual equity and access to hygiene supplies and everyday essentials, with dignity at the center.
Featured educational experience
The Hive Takes Disney
More than a trip. A chance to explore STEM, strengthen leadership, practice teamwork, and experience possibilities beyond familiar surroundings.
Support Educational AccessWhy experiences matter
She cannot imagine every possibility until she has an opportunity to see it.
Project Bridging develops educational excursions that connect real-world exposure with preparation, reflection, and opportunities for mentees to share what they learn. The proposed Disney educational expedition is one of those experiences.
Events & engagement
Where the mission comes alive.
Our gatherings are designed to put young women in the room, at the table, and in positions of leadership.
Thynk Pynk
Wellness, identity, self-care, and intergenerational dialogue.
Spill the Tea
Honest conversations and meaningful connection around issues affecting young women.
Bridging Brilliance
A celebration of achievement, character, leadership, and growth.
Meet the founder
Experience in education. A commitment to opportunity.
Patricia A. Barbee is an educator, youth specialist, advocate, and Founder and Executive Director of Bridging Youth Advancement & Resource Programs, home of Project Bridging. Her more than 25 years working with young people inform an approach that combines high expectations with relationships, access, and meaningful experiences.
“I believe in opportunity and access. Young women deserve more than encouragement. They deserve experiences, resources, relationships, and room to lead.”
Patricia A. Barbee · Founder & Executive Director
Partners & community
Strong communities invest in their young people.
Businesses, educators, mentors, families, and community partners make access possible. Support can include financial sponsorship, learning opportunities, professional expertise, in-kind resources, transportation, and volunteer service.
Corporate & Community Partners
Invest in leadership development, educational experiences, and a stronger local future.
Mentors & Volunteers
Share time, skills, experience, and relationships that expand what young women can access.
Families & Supporters
Help build a consistent circle of support around each mentee's journey.
Be part of the bridge
Invest in her experience. Support her education. Strengthen our community.
When you support Project Bridging, you help make mentorship, learning, leadership, wellness, and educational experiences more accessible to young women. Join us as a sponsor, mentor, volunteer, family, or advocate.
Join the mission
There is a place for you in the Hive.
For young women & families
Become a Mentee
Learn about our mentorship, leadership, and educational opportunities, including the junior pathway.
For individuals
Mentor or Volunteer
Bring your skills and presence to a community committed to young women's growth.
For companies & institutions
Partner or Sponsor
Support a program, sponsor an experience, provide resources, or collaborate on meaningful learning.
For everyone
Follow the Journey
Get to know our young women through The Art of Beecoming: Welcome to the Hive, our signature storytelling series.