History

Hope In Salvation BridgeBuilders

H.I.S. BridgeBuilders is a faith-based, 501(c)3 non-profit organization that has an extensive history of serving low-income communities in Dallas. Founded in 1995 by an inner-city mom and a north Dallas businessman, H.I.S BridgeBuilders exists to “unite and mobilize the body of Christ to bring transformation to cities through salvation and the restoration of communities for the glory of God.” We seek to accomplish this mission through five integrated program areas: Education, Employment Training, Medical Care, Economic Development and Spiritual Development. Though H.I.S. BridgeBuilders is founded on Christian principles and practice, we serve each of our clients regardless of religion, faith, or creed. We recognize that for lives to be changed and communities renewed our services must meet practical needs in a way that empowers individuals and families toward self-sufficiency.

Mike Fechner, Founder and President of H.I.S. BridgeBuilders, came out of a business background before committing his life to serve low-income communities in 1994. After more than a decade of providing personal mentoring and discipleship in the inner city, Mr. Fechner had a strong desire to make a lasting impact on a greater number of inner city residents. In 1995, Mike joined with Velma Mitchell to create a ministry designed to build a bridge of Christ love between the diverse communities of our city. Mrs. Mitchell came from the South Dallas community and had experienced similar hardships as other residents in the area, including losing her only son in a drive-by shooting. Having successfully overcome many obstacles, she desired to be a vessel of blessing and role model for others. The organization began their activities with GED classes and encouragement teams in the Turner Courts public housing development and later expanded to Rhoads Terrace and Cedar Springs housing developments. BridgeBuilders continues to serve these communities but has expanded its influence and reach due to the two low-cost clinics (optical and dental), three employment training courses it operates, GED classes, along with increasing economic development opportunities.The organization also has nascent works in San Antonio, TX, Clarksburg, WV, and Galati, Romania. Optical clinics and training labs in each of these three cities are in the process of becoming operational.

Both Mr. Fechner and Mrs. Mitchell have been a source of tremendous, positive impact in the Dallas community. Today, Mike serves as President of H.I.S BridgeBuilders and continues persevering in his mission of revitalizing low-income community. He has created an organization that brings many resources to these communities, including partnerships with corporations, governmental agencies, medical care providers, educational institutions, foundations, churches and volunteers. Mr. Fechner received the Legends of Service Award from Dallas Life Foundation in June 2006. On October 23, 2006 he was named the recipient of the 2006 “Let Justice Roll on Like a River” Economic Development Award from the research arm of the Foundation for Community Empowerment, the J. McDonald Williams Institute.