Story #53: Robert Bridgeman, Empowering Creativity in Youth

Robert Bridgeman, a retired Director of Programs (DoP) at PBHA, dedicated 25 years to empowering youth and fostering community engagement. Starting his journey in 1993, Bridgeman stepped into a crucial role as part time support to CYEP, where he was brought in to build trust among parents and revamp the program.

Throughout his tenure, Bridgeman was particularly inspired by the undergraduate students he worked alongside.

“I was in awe that they could manage such complexities at such a young age—17 or 18,” - Robert Bridgeman, sharing his motivation behind becoming a full-time member of the PBHA team.

Outside of PBHA, Bridgeman’s passions extended to the performing arts. As a dancer and actor, he founded a company in Boston, organizing performances, fashion shows, and talent showcases. This creative background influenced his work at PBHA, culminating in one of his proudest achievements: the Midsummer Celebration. “I had a vision of bringing all of the camps together,” he said, describing the event that began as a small gathering in Jamaica Plain and grew to involve hundreds of children and parents over the years.

Bridgeman emphasizes the importance of youth mentorship in creating strong programs.

“Never underestimate the power of youth.” - Robert Bridgeman, providing advice to new faces entering PBHA.

His own children grew up within the PBHA community, with Bridgeman recalling baby showers held there and staff who watched his kids grow. “There was so much camaraderie; it was beautiful,” he reflected.

As a mentor, Bridgeman also imparts wisdom to students preparing to volunteer in unfamiliar communities. “Choose your friends wisely,” he advises, stressing the significance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals committed to making a difference.

His guiding philosophy is encapsulated in a quote he often shares with his children:

“You can’t determine your future, you can only control your habits, then those habits will dictate your future.”

Robert Bridgeman’s commitment to youth development and community service continues to inspire all who have crossed his path, leaving an irreplacible mark on PBHA and the lives of countless individuals.

Robert Bridgeman (left), Lee Smith (center), Farah Stockman (right)

Photo from May 2002.

Sam Greenberg (left), Bob Hurlbut (center), and Robert Bridgeman (right)

This photo was taken at the Cambridge Community Foundation tribute to Bob.

David Dance (left) and Robert Bridgeman (right)

Photo from David and Robert’s retirement party in 2017.