Blue Bridge Project

Project Objective

The Blue Bridge Project draws its name from two key ideas: Blue, a color symbolizing both EduBud’s identity and international autism awareness, and Bridge, representing connection, specifically the building of pathways between individuals, communities, and abilities to foster a culture of true inclusion in our community.

This student-led initiative, based at the EduBud Community Center in Suwanee, GA, is dedicated to promoting awareness, social inclusion, and meaningful relationships for adults with diverse learning needs.

At the core of the Blue Bridge Project is a mentorship model inspired by the original EduBud Youth Program. Each EduBud Community Center special needs student is paired with two high school chapter leader student volunteers who meet weekly for friendship sessions. Together, they collaborate on preparations for monthly themed FUN Friday community events such as art workshops, cooking demonstrations, seasonal festivals, music performances, and talent showcases. FUN Friday will take place every last Friday of the month.

By prioritizing authentic, person-to-person connections over symbolic gestures of awareness, the Blue Bridge Project nurtures empathy, builds social confidence, and strengthens community bonds. The result, we hope, will be a more inclusive environment where everyone can grow together, creating lasting friendships.

Project Aims

Specific Aim #1:
Develop and evaluate the effect of the Blue Bridge Project in increasing inclusion, social engagement, and community participation among Community Center special needs students.

  • Aim 1.1: Pair high school chapter leaders with Community Center special needs students, tracking engagement, participation, and feedback over one semester.

  • Aim 1.2: Expand the program to all chapter members in across EduBud GA high school chapters, reaching dozens of students and promoting broader inclusion.

Specific Aim #2:
Use the relationships formed through the Blue Bridge Project to enhance community events by preparing activities, performances, and collaborative projects, ensuring Community Center students are active participants and contributors.

  • Aim 2.1: Coordinate monthly events where buddy pairs present projects, perform, or facilitate activities.

  • Aim 2.2: Document the events and mentorship outcomes through photos, videos, and reflections to raise awareness of inclusion in the broader community.

The successful implementation of the Blue Bridge Project will:

  • Foster meaningful friendships and mentorships between high school students and Community Center participants.

  • Increase awareness of the abilities, talents, and contributions of adults with diverse learning needs.

  • Strengthen Community Center engagement and participation in monthly events.

Ultimately, the Blue Bridge Project will create a ripple effect of awareness, empathy, and inclusion, moving communities toward a more connected, understanding, and supportive environment for all learners.

FALL 2025 APPLICATION CLOSED

2025 -2026 FUN FRIDAY Community Events:

*

2025 -2026 FUN FRIDAY Community Events: *

  • Each buddy pair creates a shared vision board using magazines, printouts, and supplies. At the FUN FRIDAY Community Event, they present together: “Our 2025 goals are…”

  • Buddy pairs design and market their kindness-themed booths (i.e. compliment wheel, card station, bracelets, affirmation wall). Each group runs their booth and sells their products on FUN Friday.

  • Buddy pairs prepare performances (music, dance, art, or skits). Acts can be solo or duo. MC roles available for volunteers.

  • Buddy pairs will plant seeds together—watching them bloom over the next three weeks—then decorate their own flowerpots with color and creativity. The finished pots will be displayed in our vibrant “garden gallery” for everyone to enjoy, followed by extra crafts (i.e. bouquet making, origami) to keep the fun going.

  • Each buddy pair helps plan one part of the party (slideshow, games, decorations). On FUN FRIDAY, everyone celebrates together and shares memories of their year together.

  • Buddy pairs will each create their own “Olympic” competition game/activity. On FUN FRIDAY, teams will play relay-style community games (ball toss, races, obstacle course). Volunteers model and guide each game/activity.

  • Buddy pairs choreograph simple dances or handshakes for a short TikTok-style routine. They also design festive decorations for FUN FRIDAY like leis and palm trees to set the “luau vibe.”

  • Each buddy pair prepares a fun back-to-school project (i.e. short skit, song, creative activity) to introduce each other. On FUN FRIDAY, all buddy pairs bring their projects to life with music, games, and a showcase of their creations, along with decorating school supplies together.

  • Buddy pairs create art (painting, crafts, photography). On FUN FRIDAY showcase day, they present their work together and share what it means.

  • Buddy pairs team up to design creative costumes using crafts, fabrics, and props. On FUN FRIDAY, they join in a lively parade and mini runway show, where each pair presents their look. The event ends with a fun awards ceremony—recognizing costumes for categories like ‘Most Creative,’ ‘Funniest,’ ‘Best Duo,’ and ‘Spookiest.’ Pairs can also post TikToks of their costume reveal and awards moment.

  • Buddy pairs will spread kindness by creating colorful gratitude notes, scrolls, or drawings for at least three people they’re thankful for. They can get creative with colors, stickers, and doodles to make each message unique! Then, on FUN FRIDAY, buddies will team up to share their reflections and celebrate the joy of giving thanks together.

  • Each buddy pair is randomly assigned a Secret buddy pair to surprise with their gift. Buddy pairs create handmade gifts (cookies, ornaments, cards). On FUN FRIDAY, they exchange gifts, and then, everyone comes together for holiday games like bingo, trivia, and music.

Process

  1. Submit Application

    Applicants must complete the online application thoroughly and thoughtfully. This is your opportunity to highlight your academic strengths, prior experiences, and personal motivation for joining the EduBud Youth Program. Incomplete or rushed applications may not be considered.

  2. Interview

    Selected applicants will receive an email with detailed interview guidelines and scheduling information. The interview is designed to assess a well-rounded picture of each candidate. Students will be evaluated across four main areas:

    • Skills & Experiences – Academic abilities, prior tutoring or leadership roles, and relevant involvement.

    • Personality & Communication – Attitude, empathy, and ability to engage with younger students.

    • Creative Thinking & Problem-Solving – Responses to real-world or program-based scenarios.

    • Commitment & Reliability – Dedication to consistency and responsibility as a volunteer.

  3. Training & Orientation

    Applicants who are accepted will participate in a structured training program. Training includes:

    • Mentorship Best Practices – Guidance on how to effectively support and encourage their buddy.

    • Program Expectations – Clear overview of responsibilities, weekly schedules, and reporting.

    • “Get to Know Your Buddy” Timeline – Activities and milestones designed to help new mentors build strong connections with their assigned buddy in the first few weeks.

Application Deadlines:

Fall (July 31)

Spring (December 31)

Stay tuned for Spring 2026 applications!

FALL 2025 APPLICATION CLOSED

2025 Finalists:

Top Row (L-R)

Kevin Lee (10th, Lambert)

Aidan Park (12th, Peachtree Ridge)

Yeongwoo Mason Roh (12th, Lambert)

Bottom Row (L-R)

Julie Park (12th, North Gwinnett)

Elise Park (10th, Peachtree Ridge)

Hyerin Lilly Roh (10th, Lambert)

Anna Kim (12th, Alpharetta)

Rachel Kim (12th, North Gwinnett)