BridgeSPAN Initiative

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

The Bridges USA, Inc. will hire personnel and purchase supplies and equipment to support the Bridge SPAN Program. The purpose of the Bridge SPAN initiative is to reduce the Memphis high school drop-out rate and subsequent criminal behavior through the application of structured experiential learning activities that complement students' academic learning and provide youth with experiences and knowledge that maximize their growth and development while meeting their needs for career exploration. The goals of Bridge SPAN are to: develop experiential learning training modules by hiring facilitators, designing training modules, and purchasing equipment by engaging staff and educators in experiential learning activities; introduce experiential learning curriculum to teachers and administrators; conduct training with 1000 students by implementing modules with students; and implement program evaluation by contracting with a research organization to evaluate project outcomes.

NCA/NCF