ABOUT US
Bridges of Love exists to empower communities and churches to respond effectively when disaster strikes. Our mission is to inspire preparedness and deliver emergency training, ensuring that support is available before crises occur. As a Registered Canadian Charitable Religious Society, we focus on fostering community resilience by connecting individuals, churches, and networks.
At Bridges of Love, we believe that love is action, and we strive to be a living testament as a follower of Jesus Christ.
OUR APPROACH
EMPOWERING
COMMUNITIES
What sets Bridges of Love apart is our proactive approach to emergency management. Unlike many organizations that focus solely on recovery, we emphasize proactive preparedness. This forward-thinking strategy equips communities to stand in the gap until the first responder arrives on the scene, and can mitigate the impact of the disaster before it escalates.
Bridges of Love also addresses gaps in post-disaster response by coordinating resources and training when local governments may be overwhelmed by the needs of entire communities. Our motto, "Churches helping Neighbours, Neighbours helping Neighbours," reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of mutual support. By engaging with our programs we can broaden and strengthen this critical community emergency response.
Our Story
2004
FOUNDING OF BRIDGES OF LOVE MINISTRY
Founded in 2004, Bridges of Love was founded by Marg Pollon with support from her husband Tom. Driven by dedication and compassion, over the past +20 years they have served the communities of Calgary and High River, Alberta.
Their journey began when they accepted the Lord as their personal Saviour due to the outreach efforts of a Scarborough Ontario Church. Marg's diverse experience—spanning roles as a Registered Laboratory Technologist, Bed & Breakfast owner, Church Administrator, and Volunteer—prepared her for this mission. Marg and Bridges of Love have received several accolades including the Chamber of Volunteer Organizations Innovative Award (2012), Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012), Prime Minister's Volunteer Social Innovator Award for the Prairies (2014), and Public Safety Canada's Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award (2018).
Tom Pollon, with a background in broadcasting and IT has been integral in developing Bridges of Love's websites and multimedia resources. Serving together for the past six years has brought today their vision for providing tools and resources, opening doors for the local church to serve with love in the community in which it is found.
2024
In 2024, Bridges of Love embarked on a new chapter relocating from High River to Red Deer, Alberta where they remain dedicated to strengthening communities throughout the region. Over the past 2 years with the support from Alberta's Civil Society grant, the focus is on seven Alberta counties: Mountain View, Foothills, Vulcan, Wheatland, Lacombe, Red Deer, and Kneehill County. With the addition of a Staff Member, Felicia Smith, Operations & It Specialist, they continue to enhance emergency preparedness and response initiatives in these areas, offering vital resources and training to communities. Building relationships of trust as they broaden their impact, striving to build resilient communities that are prepared to face any challenge with love, compassion, and the sills and knowledge to make a difference that will eternal.
Awards
Bridges of Love Ministry is indeed appreciative of the awards and recognition received over the years. It does inspire and encourage us to continue to serve the Lord with love and dedication.
Recipient of the 2012 Alberta Nonprofit Innovation Awards presented by CCVO
(Calgary Chamber of
Voluntary Organizations)
Recipient of the 2012 Queen Elisabeth II Jubilee Medal Recipient #129
Recipient of the 2nd Annual Prime Minister's Volunteer Award 2014
Recipient of the 2017-2018 Public Safety Canada's Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award
Recipient of Heroes of 2013 Flood Honoured in Alberta
Endorsements of Our Mission
We are proud to share letters of support from key organizations and leaders who recognize the importance of our work in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Their endorsements highlight our shared commitment to building resilient communities. Click below to read their messages of support.
Board of Directors
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
