HVRP Program Manager
“Helping others makes the world go around! I love it when I engage with a veteran and I can positively impact that person’s situation just by sharing information about programs, and organizations.”
Elena Bridges, HVRP Program Manager
What is your name? Elena Bridges
What is your position with VOAMI? HVRP Program Manager (Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program)
What brought you to VOAMI? I knew I wanted to serve homeless veterans and utilize my skills and knowledge in navigating veterans’ resources.
How long have you worked with VOAMI? Since 2021
What is the biggest takeaway from your job? VOAMI homeless programs can change the trajectory of a person’s life in a positive way if they want the help.
What does it mean to you to be helping others? Helping others makes the world go around! I love it when I engage with a veteran and I can positively impact that person’s situation just by sharing information about programs, and organizations.
What is your biggest challenge? Earning the trust of homeless veterans and showing them that life can be better than living on the streets.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? “Get busy living or get busy dying” – Shawshank Redemption
What is your favorite color? Purple
Where is your ideal vacation spot? Anywhere that has my husband, our bikes, great weather, a baseball game, and a brew pub.
What is your favorite book? Lost Lanes West Country: 36 Glorious bike rides in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire, By Jack Thurston
What fills your time outside of work? Cycling with my husband along the countryside.
Who is your hero? Why? My Husband, Mike Bridges, because he is loyal, smart, patient, hilariously funny, and has taught me everything about backwards planning.
Did you serve in the military? No, not directly, Army Wife for Life! I have been married to my husband for over 30 years and he retired as a CSM in the Army. I learned how to navigate military systems and resources to solve my own issues.
