N America News May 2017

NORTHAMERICANEWS / MAY 2017 65 Bridging the Gap g English Speakers of Other Languages In 2010 Bridges International partnered with the Dave Thomas Education Center in Broward County to create a unique program for English Speakers of Other Languages. This was in response to the need for programs for the growing number of non-English speaking inmates. The ESOL program is the first of its kind among Florida state transitional work release facilities. Using innovative computer software ESOL students practice their English speaking and listening skills for up to two hours a day. Florida Ready to Work Program Bridges International is the only substance abuse treatment provider that is a Florida Ready to Work Assessment Center and currently provides the opportunity for inmates to earn a Florida Ready to Work Employment Credential. BI continues to rank among the top performers for inmates receiving Florida Ready to Work certificates. In 2009 the Broward County Bridge was chosen by Florida Ready to Work/ACT WorkKeys to pilot the newly developed WorkHabits computer courseware which is being utilized in all of our work release facilities. Toastmasters Award In 2007 The Bradenton Bridge received the distinction of International Presidential Distinguished Chapter from Toastmasters International for their “Toastmasters N Transition” chapter. American Correctional Association Award The Exemplary Inmate Program Award is presented annually to an outstanding correctional program by the American Correctional Association. In 2001, when the Florida Department of Corrections was honored with the prestigious Exemplary Inmate Program Award for the Non-Secure Drug treatment Program, Bridges International had been the largest provider of services for that branch of the Department for the past 16 years.