Each year, the Bridges community comes together for an evening that is equal parts celebration, connection, and impact. The S.O.A.R. Soirée isn’t just a gala — it’s a reflection of who we are, what we believe, and how we show up for our kids.
Before we get to the five reasons, let’s start with a short event overview.
The S.O.A.R. Soirée at a Glance
What does S.O.A.R. stand for?
Strengthening Our Aspirations and Resources
What is it?
An annual fundraising and community event in support of Bridges students and families.
Where do the funds go?
100% of raised funds support financial aid, which currently serves 1 in 3 Bridges students.
Why it matters:
The S.O.A.R. Soirée directly impacts students’ ability to attend Bridges and sustains our program defining small class sizes, specialized instruction, and social-emotional supports.
What is this year’s theme?
The Art of Belonging
When and where will this year’s gala be held?
This event is happening Saturday, April 18 at the Exchange Ballroom located at 123 NE 3rd Avenue in Portland, Oregon.
Are tickets still available?
Yes, tickets are available for purchase here.
5 Reasons the S.O.A.R. Soirée is More Than a Gala
- It represents what it truly means to soar.
At Bridges, to soar means more than academic success. Many of our students arrive struggling to feel understood in traditional learning environments. S.O.A.R. reflects what happens when barriers are removed and students receive support academically, emotionally, and socially.
When students are seen, challenged, and valued for who they are, they don’t just succeed — they thrive. - It has a direct and life-changing impact on students.
This event isn’t abstract fundraising. The support raised at the S.O.A.R. Soirée determines whether many students can attend (or continue attending) Bridges.
Financial aid provides access, stability, and opportunity for real children and families in our community. The most powerful moments often come after the event, when families share that because of financial assistance, their child can remain at the school for another year. In those moments, the Soirée becomes what it truly is: a lifeline. - It puts belonging at the center of learning.
Belonging is the foundation of everything we do at Bridges. Students can’t learn — let alone soar — unless they feel safe, valued, and understood.
This year’s theme, The Art of Belonging, reflects the intention behind creating environments where students feel truly known. Belonging doesn’t happen by accident. It requires care, empathy, and commitment. At Bridges, belonging isn’t about fitting in; it’s about being welcomed exactly as you are. - It shares powerful student stories.
Storytelling is central to the S.O.A.R. Soirée. Over the years, our community has been moved by student stories such as Peter’s, Rylie’s, Charlie’s, and Alec’s with each highlighting what’s possible when students receive the right support.
This year’s event will be emceed by Bridges alumnus Declan Kenney, who will premiere two new Bridges videos, including one highlighting our new campus and another featuring the story of current student Hudson. - It reflects a bigger conversation in education.
Across the country, schools are navigating anxiety, disengagement, and unmet mental health needs. Bridges has long been at the forefront of this conversation, with a model built around whole-child support.
The S.O.A.R. Soirée highlights what’s possible when schools prioritize mental health, inclusion, and belonging alongside academics. It’s not just a fundraiser — it’s a statement about the kind of education our students deserve.
The Takeaway
For first-time attendees and longtime supporters alike, the S.O.A.R. Soirée is a reminder that Bridges is more than a school. It’s a community.
When we invest in belonging, students don’t just survive school.
They soar.