Meet the November 2023 Community Superhero: Andrea Bridges

In this season of giving thanks, the National Children’s Advocacy Center and Redstone Federal Credit Union extend our deepest gratitude to Andrea Bridges for her dedication to the betterment of our community. For the past five years, Andrea has served as Executive Director of The CARE Center, making it her mission every day to ensure that no child or family is left behind. Born and raised in the community that she serves, Executive Director Andrea Bridges takes the mission of The CARE Center personally and is a superhero in the lives of more than many.

Even at a young age, Andrea felt the same passion she still feels today for helping children. She had plans of becoming a second-grade teacher and began her college journey as an education major. Late into her college years, she took the opportunity to volunteer as a substitute teacher and quickly decided that switching her major to business would be a better fit. Post graduation, Andrea pursued an 11-year career in finance but never felt fulfilled by this work. In 2009, she accepted the position of Education Coordinator at The Care Center. “This position allowed me to combine my passion for early childhood education with my background in business,” said Andrea. Little did she know this position would lead to her current role as Executive Director.

Years ago, the graduation rate for students attending New Hope High School was 64%. Since the creation of The CARE Center, that rate has risen to 91%. “The majority didn’t lack the desire to succeed; they lacked the resources,” said Andrea. The CARE Center’s team works tirelessly to break this cycle by providing K-12 school-based academic intervention, high-quality after-school and summer programs, mentoring and counseling, weekend food support, adult learning programs, and much more. The CARE Center strives to meet the individual needs of each child a175nd/or family. As humble as she is impactful, Andrea feels her superpower is her team. “My ability to surround myself with a compassionate and hard-working team makes this mission come to life. I couldn’t do it alone.”

Andrea feels that her passion to serve was passed down by those who shaped her into who she is today. She was raised by parents who found joy in serving others and staying involved in their community. In fact, her grandfather owned the local convenience store and made it his priority to extend a helping hand to customers in need. Executive Director Andrea Bridges has been a pillar for the New Hope community and exemplifies all aspects of a superhero. Her heart for the community is admirable, and the lives of the children and families she and her team at The CARE Center have changed are everlasting.

Our November Superhero is brought to you by: