POVERTY REDUCTION • BRIDGESICT
We know that poverty and mental health are deeply connected, each making the other harder to overcome. That’s why we created BridgesICT, HopeNet’s poverty reduction program, designed to break cycles of instability and help individuals build a new future story. Wichita is on the forefront of poverty reduction, and HopeNet is honored to lead this important work in our community.
For an individual ready to explore getting out of poverty, their journey begins with Getting Ahead, where participants learn about the causes of poverty and identify resources to move toward stability. Graduates then stay connected through Staying Ahead classes, groups, and opportunities that sustain momentum, while Empowerment Navigators walk alongside them with guidance and encouragement.
For those who are resourced, the Bridges Out of Poverty workshop provides powerful insight into the hidden rules of poverty and equips community members, employers, and leaders to understand what those striving for stability are experiencing.
Together, we can create a ripple effect of generational change. We restore dignity, build stronger families, and weave hope into the fabric of Wichita.
We want to build a community where everyone can live well.
1/5 Almost 1/5th of the population of Wichita live in poverty.
3xs Children growing up in poverty are 3x’s more likely to grow up with mental health issues.
Bridges Out of Poverty is a community workshop for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of poverty and the challenges faced by those experiencing it. It equips participants with insight
into poverty’s complexities and practical stragegies to help address and reduce its impact. It can be designed either for the general public or for specific sectors such as education, health care providers, first responders, and others.
View and register for upcoming Bridges Out Of Poverty workshops.
To request a Bridges Out of Poverty workshop for your organization, email bridgesICT@hopenetwichita.org.
Getting Ahead is a 16-week class that empowers under-resourced individuals to examine the barriers holding them back and taking steps toward stability. While HopeNet offers the class annually, we also train and partner with local schools, churches, businesses and other non-profits to offer Getting Ahead classes year-round throughout our community.
Each course brings together a group of up to 15 adults, with the assistance of facilitators, to investigate and address barriers that keep them from getting ahead. Participants create their own plan and build resources, tools, and skills needed for stability.
Each prospective participant must apply, be interviewed, and accepted into the course. (They must be at least 18 years old, not in an active addiction, and have reliable transportation.) Each week at class, they receive a free dinner for themselves and their children, free childcare for the evening, and a $25 Dillons gift card for attending and participating.
View and register for upcoming Getting Ahead classes.
Facilitators and Hosts
For facilitator applications or class sponsorship and hosting information, email bridgesICT@hopenetwichita.org
Login to access facilitator & host document downloads, or email bridgesICT@hopenetwichita.org to set up your account.
After graduating from Getting Ahead, individuals can continue their growth through Staying Ahead. Staying Ahead is a set of resources and opportunities designed by those in our community to connect Getting Ahead graduates with resources, classes, and Empowerment Navigators to help them achieve their future story and stabilize their lives. This program is where opportunities for real, long-term stability expand.
View and register for upcoming Staying Ahead classes.
To learn how to become a Staying Ahead Class provider, email bridgesICT@hopenetwichita.org
As part of Staying Ahead, participants may opt to walk with an Empowerment Navigator as they map out their future story. Empowerment Navigators are trained community volunteers who provide personalized guidance by helping to navigate opportunities that support long-term stability and forward progress. They help individuals build resources, set goals, and connect with community support through consistent encouragement, accountability, and care.
Training and ongoing support equip Navigators to listen well, ask powerful questions, and guide others with empathy and respect. Together, we build a stronger, healthier Wichita—one relationship at a time.
To sign up to be an Empowerment Navigator REGISTER HERE
To get more information on becoming an Empowerment Navigator, email bridgesICT@hopenetwichita.org
Login to access empowerment navigator document downloads or email bridgesICT @hopenetwichita.org to set up your account.