Building Bridges
Stay in Control. Build a Stronger Future.
What is Building Bridges to Hope?
Building Bridges to Hope (BBtH) is a community-driven initiative dedicated to substance use prevention in Hampton Roads, VA through education, outreach, and support services. Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the program is operated by Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas and is open to all community members across four counties, at no cost. Our goal is to equip individuals, families, and communities with the knowledge, resources, and skills needed to make informed decisions and build healthier, substance-free lives.
You have the power to take control of your future. Whether you’re looking for prevention education, recovery resources, or ways to support your community, BBtH is here to help.
What we Offer
Workshops & Training
- Stay in Control – Learn practical tools to make informed choices and develop lifelong healthy habits.
- Mental Health First Aid – Be prepared to support yourself and others in times of crisis.
- CPR Certification – Equip yourself with life-saving skills.
- Substance Use Awareness & Prevention – Understand the risks and strategies to stay substance-free.
- Parental Guidance & Support – Tools to help caregivers navigate tough conversations with confidence.
Support & Resources
- Peer Mentorship & Community Networks – Because no one should go through this alone.
- Recovery & Referral Services – Get connected to trusted local organizations for additional support.
Community Engagement
- School & Youth Partnerships – BBtH collaborates with schools to deliver prevention education and skill-building programs.
- Workforce & Reentry Programs – Creating real opportunities for a fresh start.
- Collaborations with Law Enforcement & Faith-Based Organizations – Strengthening community-wide support networks.
Who Can Participate?
- Youth ages 11+ who want to make healthy choices
- Parents caregivers looking for support and guidance
- Veterans and military families
- Community organizations dedicated to prevention and education
- Educators & mentors who want to empower the next generation
- Healthcare & social service providers seeking training on trauma-informed care
- Anyone looking for a safe, supportive community
No insurance or referral needed. All services are free.
Upcoming Events
Want to host your own workshop?
We’d be happy to coordinate a custom workshop or training for your company or organization.
Please take a look at any of the publicly available trainingsin the events to the right to see the types of trainings we offer. Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions.
Strength Starts with You
At Building Bridges to Hope we believe that prevention is most effective when it starts at the local level with people and organizations who are willing to take action. Together we can reduce the impact of substance misuse and create safer, healthier environments for everyone.
Whether you’re a school leader, healthcare provider, nonprofit professional, or concerned neighbor, you can ensure that individuals and families receive the support they need before a crisis begins.
When you join the BBtH network, you become part of a growing coalition of change-makers across Newport News, Hampton, Portsmouth, Isle of Wight, and Franklin counties. Your participation sends a clear message: everyone deserves the chance to stay in control of their future.
Why Partner with Us?
At Building Bridges to Hope, partnership is about more than affiliation. By joining BBtH, your organization becomes part of a trusted local network delivering substance use prevention in Hampton Roads, VA. Here’s what you gain:
Stronger Community Impact
Join forces with schools, nonprofits, and service providers to create meaningful, measurable prevention outcomes in your community.
Access to Training & Prevention Tools
Receive first-priority access to free trainings like Mental Health First Aid, de-escalation workshops, and CPR/AED certification.
Elevated Visibility
Be featured in community outreach campaigns, educational events, and collaborative projects that highlight your role as a trusted local leader.
Workforce Development Opportunities
Help your team grow through continuing education, coalition-building, and BBtH-hosted peer leadership training.
Community Credibility
Become part of a network backed by Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas, with support from federal SAMHSA funding.
Ready to Collaborate?
We’re building something bigger than any one organization, and we want you with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend BBtH workshops?
Anyone living in Newport News, Hampton, Portsmouth, or Franklin, VA. Our workshops are open to youth (ages 11+), adults, and families.
Do I need to pay for anything?
Nope. All of our trainings and workshops are completely free, thanks to federal funding from SAMHSA.
What types of events do you offer?
We host substance use prevention workshops, mental health first aid trainings, CPR/AED certification, peer leadership programs, and more.
Can I get involved as a volunteer?
Absolutely. We’re always looking for individuals who want to give back. Submit a form and we’ll find a way for you to support the mission.
Is my information kept private?
Yes. We believe in dignity, safety, and trust. All services are delivered with confidentiality and compassion.
Substance use prevention is about more than awarenes —it’s about taking control of your choices and building a future you’re proud of. Early intervention and education can prevent addiction, reduce relapse rates, and create safer communities for families and youth.
BBtH is here to empower you, but the first step starts with you.
bbth@voaches.org or 1-757-979-5798
