Bridges@Work
A workforce stability partnership for employers
ABOUT BRIDGES@WORK
Across Northeast Ohio, employers are facing challenges traditional workforce strategies weren’t designed to solve. Transportation breakdowns, caregiving responsibilities, financial emergencies, and chronic financial stress can disrupt work even when employees are motivated and skilled.
Bridges@Work is a workforce stability partnership led by United Way of Greater Cleveland that helps employers respond to these challenges. The program embeds United Way’s 211 resource network directly into the workplace, providing confidential, one-on-one support that helps employees resolve immediate disruptions while building longer-term financial stability.
When employees are stable, businesses are stronger.
“We’ve found that consistent engagement with Bridges at Work, including goal setting and regular check-ins, has directly contributed to improved retention and minimal turnover with our employees who participate.”
-Tracie Roberts, President of Montville Plastics
HOW THE MODEL WORKS
Bridges@Work is a workplace-embedded benefit designed to support employees through the real-life challenges that affect work. The model promotes stability, dignity, and sustained employment.
A neutral, confidential Resource Coordinator from Bridges@Work will:
- Meet voluntarily and confidentially with employees
- Focus on resolving issues that disrupt attendance and focus
- Support forward movement toward greater stability over time
- Operate independently from HR and management
SEE BRIDGES@WORK IN ACTION
Watch Bobby’s story to see how Bridges@Work supports employees and strengthens workplaces.
PROVEN RESULTS
In a five-year retention study spanning 2018-2023, including the COVID-19 period, more than half of Bridges@Work participants remained employed five years or longer — a strong result in high-turnover roles during an unusually volatile labor market.
LEARN MORE
Download the Bridges@Work flyer
Contact Cariss Smith at ctsmith@unitedwaycleveland.org or submit this form:
Learn more about the Bridges@Work program by nominating your company or your employer. Provide the best point of contact information below.
