Bridge House, A History

In the 80’s the idea for the beginning of our program came out of a request by a Kona doctor and therapist that worked with patients with substance abuse issues. There was no supportive housing for them to live at in early stages of recovery. A group of men & women, mostly in recovery, answered the call for help by working for nearly 7 years to establish this organization. Originally started as Kona Halfway house, the first program was located in Kailua View Estates as a small house for men only. The name changed to West Hawaii Options for Living and eventually changed to our true name, Bridge House. Near that time much work was put in to acquire the amazing space where we are currently located in Keauhou Mauka, on a 7-acre farm. With that move came big changes as finally women were part of the program. A program heavily based on vocational education, support groups and built around the concept of a therapeutic milieu, that is the history of the start of Bridge House.

We have a long legacy of committed board members, some who have served over 25 years. We are grateful for all those who have given their time, be it a board member, community volunteer, former clients and staff that have worked to ensure that there is a place in Kona for those wanting help with substance abuse issues.

Without the help of the community Bridge House would not exist. We acknowledge that one of our most important assets are those in recovery that give back and help others. Giving back is a cherished tradition adopted by Bridge House…Help yourself, so you can help others. It’s about the giveback and being a part of the community.

Mission Vision Values

Over the past decade we have shifted to a more cultural values-based programming and our vision has changed to reflect more accurately who we are. This change provides a more well-rounded, connected, holistic experience for our clients that is also more reflective of our community.

Changes through the years have brought about additional focuses in our programs. Our legacy mission is “To assist adults in early recovery from drug and alcohol addiction to develop successful living skills through residential and vocational experiences in a safe, structured and supportive environment.” While vocationally based programming is still a core concept of our programs, it is now incorporated into the place-based concept in Hawai’i of Aloha ‘A’ina.

Mission

Guided by our values of Pilina (connection), Aloha ʻĀina (love of the land), Lōkahi (unity), Maluhia (peace), and Pono (virtue), we work with the client’s best interest at heart to create a supportive environment during the recovery process.

Vision

Our vision is to create a sustainable community of health and productivity for all members of Bridge House. We continually strive for self-improvement as individuals, teams, and as an organization for the improved health of our clients and our community. Moku O Keawe (Island of Hawai’i) is a gift and a place like no other. In respecting the land and Hawaiian traditions, we prepare our clients for their journey through recovery from addiction to become mindful community contributors by understanding and applying the core values of Pilina (being connected), Aloha ʻĀina (love of the land), Lōkahi (unity), Maluhia (peace), and Pono (virtue).

Our Philosophy

The Bridge House guiding philosophy is based on the idea of thetherapeutic milieu.In this setting, the Bridge House staff help residents in sober living, and clients of other programming, resolve conflicts and learn appropriate behaviors as well as teaching them trust, respect, and responsibility. There is a strong emphasis on self-help and the belief that each individual has the power to change his or her life for the better.

Much more than just sharing a living space at the clean and sober living facility, or being part of an outpatient group, clients of Bridge House mustactively participatein their personal recovery program.

Bridge House is a private 501(c)3 corporation. Funding for its operation is provided by:

• The Hawaii Department of Health – Drug and Alcohol Abuse Division
• The County of Hawaii
• The Hawaii Island United Way
• Hawai’i State Judiciary
• Private donations