In this Dream Catcher podcast episode, we explore the impactful work of The Bridge, a long-standing treatment center for women and their children, discussing its history, programs, and future goals. The Bridge staff, Jill Gregg and Jillian Scott share insights into addiction recovery, community collaboration, and the importance of life skills training. ABOUT US: The Bridge first opened on November 8, 1977, as a women’s halfway house in Hastings, NE for women struggling with alcohol addiction. We have continued to grow and expand our services since. Today The Bridge is licensed by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Our programs are designed to address the unique needs of women on their journey of healing from substance use and co-occurring disorders. We believe that recovery is not an isolated process—it extends outward like ripples in water, touching families, children, and communities. Through a combination of evidence-based treatment, trauma-informed care, and a supportive community, we empower women to break free from the cycles of addiction, and reclaim their lives. When a woman finds recovery, her healing extends far beyond herself. Children thrive in safe and stable homes and families experience reconciliation and growth. Communities benefit from stronger, healthier members. Each woman’s success creates waves of positive change—rippling outward to inspire hope for generations. CONTACT US: https//:thehastingsbridge.com Mark Rudd Larsen here for the Dream Catcher Podcast. Today, I had a heartfelt conversation with Jill Gregg and Jillian Scott from The Bridge, a long-term treatment center in Hastings, Nebraska, dedicated to supporting women and their children. The Bridge has been a beacon of hope since 1977, starting as a halfway house for women battling alcohol addiction. Jill shared that they've grown significantly over the years to accommodate the complex needs of families, offering both residential treatment and aftercare services. "We're a co-occurring drug and alcohol mental health treatment center, and we're residential. So women live here with their children for anywhere from four to six months, sometimes longer." Jill’s own journey is particularly inspiring. After initially going through the program fourteen years ago, she returned in 2018, not as a resident but as a staff member. "I started as a resident here... my life was really about to fall apart, actually... I came for an interview and got hired. It was a full circle moment." This personal connection to The Bridge fuels her passion to help others find their path to recovery. The Bridge offers specialized programs for women with children, including the "Mom and Me" initiative, designed for mothers who are pregnant or have young children. This program focuses on reunification and life skills, essential for navigating the challenges of sobriety and parenting. "The programming's the same, but it's just a little bit more detailed around moms and how to navigate living life sober with children." In addition to substance abuse treatment, The Bridge emphasizes life skills, from cooking to basic household management. Many residents come in without foundational skills, and the program aims to equip them for a successful future. As The Bridge approaches its fiftieth anniversary, Jill expressed a desire to expand their facilities to better serve their community. "We would like to have an addition... we are busting at the seams here."The need for a long-term program for men was also highlighted, as current options are limited in Hastings. In closing, the conversation revealed the transformative power of community support and the vital role The Bridge plays in the lives of women and children seeking recovery. The work they do is crucial, and their commitment to building brighter futures is truly inspiring. If you want to hear more about Jill and Jillian’s insights and the incredible work being done at The Bridge, listen to the full episode on the Dream Catcher Podcast. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Bridge and its history 02:06 Personal stories of recovery and program participation 03:59 The founding of The Bridge and Joan Layman's vision 05:54 Overview of current programs and services 08:11 Expansion and future goals for The Bridge 09:50 The Mommy and Me program and reunification efforts 12:03 Life skills training and community involvement 14:00 Funding, collaboration, and organizational growth 16:02 Demographics and changing trends in addiction 18:12 The importance of comprehensive case management 20:06 Partnerships and policy discussions in behavioral health 22:04 Success stories and the impact of programs 23:49 Closing remarks and future outlook
