Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Nance
Hi Michael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
A Bridge for Kids was founded in 2012 by Michael Nance and his wife, driven by Michael’s personal journey. Growing up in a low-income household, Michael was the first in his family—on his father’s side—to attend college. He navigated the process with little financial assistance or guidance, an experience that shaped his commitment to helping others. Determined to provide low-income students in San Diego with the resources and support he never had, he launched A Bridge for Kids as a sponsorship-driven organization, ensuring each student received financial assistance.
Over the past 12 years, the organization has expanded significantly, now offering ten comprehensive programs designed to level the playing field for students and empower them to make informed decisions about their futures. Our programs not only help students gain admission to college but also equip them with the tools and opportunities to succeed once they get there.
These initiatives include:
• SAT Prep & Tutoring: Support for academic subjects and standardized tests.
• College Tours: Hands-on experiences with college campuses on both the East and West Coasts.
• College Scholarships: Financial assistance to help students pursue higher education.
• Essay & Application Support: One-on-one guidance from a dedicated volunteer for college and scholarship applications.
• Technology Equity Program: Providing laptops to students in need.
• Health & Wellness Program: Offering students enriching activities such as bowling, ice skating, rock climbing, and experiential trips.
In 2024 alone, students have had the chance to visit the Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, and Catalina Island, broadening their horizons beyond the classroom.
Through these programs, A Bridge for Kids continues to transform lives, giving students the support, exposure, and confidence they need to achieve their dreams—including becoming the first in their families to attend college.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
From the very beginning, Mr. Nance believed that if students had a voice and could share their stories with the community, the support would follow. And that belief has largely proven true. Over the past 12 years, A Bridge for Kids has grown consistently, with both student sponsorships and donations increasing in 11 out of those 12 years. In 2023, we reached two major milestones: 150 students were admitted into the program, and for the first time in our history, donations exceeded $500,000—both record-breaking achievements.
That growth, however, hasn’t come without challenges. Scaling an organization like this requires careful listening and adaptation. Rather than imposing a rigid structure, our expansion has been evolutionary, not revolutionary, driven by the needs and voices of our students.
For example, our tutoring program was born when a student expressed interest in using sponsorship funds to hire a tutor. Recognizing the widespread need for academic support, we worked with donors to create a formalized tutoring initiative. The same student-driven approach led to the development of:
• SAT Prep Classes – To help students improve their scores and college prospects.
• The Technology Equity Program – Ensuring students have access to laptops for schoolwork.
• College Tours – Giving students firsthand exposure to campuses across the country.
Each of these programs exists today because a student voiced a need, and we found a way to meet it. Listening to our students has been our greatest strategy for growth, ensuring that A Bridge for Kids remains not just an organization that helps low-income students, but one that truly empowers them.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
A Bridge for Kids is a nonprofit organization dedicated to leveling the playing field for low-income students in San Diego. We provide critical resources, mentorship, and life-changing opportunities that help students break barriers, achieve academic success, and reach their full potential.
What do we do, and what are we known for?
We specialize in identifying, mentoring, and supporting high-achieving, low-income students who have the drive and potential to succeed but lack the financial means and guidance to do so. Our core program is student sponsorship, where donors directly support a student, providing funds for essential needs like school supplies, extracurricular activities, tutoring, college application fees, and more.
Beyond sponsorship, we have expanded to offer 10 comprehensive programs that provide academic support, college preparation, personal development, and enrichment opportunities. These include:
• College Tours (East & West Coast) – Giving students firsthand exposure to top universities.
• SAT Prep & Academic Tutoring – Helping students improve scores and gain admission to competitive schools.
• College & Scholarship Application Assistance – Offering one-on-one essay and application coaching.
• Technology Equity Program – Ensuring students have laptops for schoolwork.
• Health & Wellness Program – Providing enriching experiences like hiking, ice skating, and rock climbing.
What sets A Bridge for Kids apart?
We don’t just provide financial aid—we invest in each student as an individual. What makes us unique is our commitment to listening to students and tailoring our support based on their needs. Many of our programs were created because students expressed a need for them—whether it was SAT prep, tutoring, or college visits. We believe in empowering students, giving them a voice, and ensuring they have the same opportunities as their more privileged peers.
What are we most proud of brand-wise?
Our biggest source of pride is the impact we’ve had on our students’ lives. Many of the young people we support are the first in their families to attend college, and we’ve helped them secure spots at top universities across the country. In 2023, we reached a milestone of 150 students admitted into our program, and for the first time—a testament to the power of our mission and the generosity of our supporters. We expect to admit over 200 students into our program next year or double what we achieved in 2022
What do we want readers to know?
A Bridge for Kids isn’t just about funding—it’s about changing lives. Every sponsorship, every program, and every opportunity we provide helps students realize their potential, access higher education, and create a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Whether you’re looking to sponsor a student, volunteer, or support our programs, there’s a way for everyone to be part of this journey. Together, we can transform lives—one student at a time.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Starting A Bridge for Kids was probably one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken. To be honest, I never set out to launch a nonprofit. My original plan was simple—I wanted to volunteer my time with an existing organization that supported underprivileged youth, a cause that has always been close to my heart. I thought I could eventually work my way up to a board position and make an impact from within.
However, when I reached out to multiple children’s charities, I was surprised by the lack of response. Only one organization got back to me, and even they failed to follow through. That experience left me thinking—if these nonprofits weren’t even willing to engage with someone offering their time, resources, and financial support, how could they be effectively serving the kids who needed them most?
Taking the Leap
Faced with that reality, I had two choices: walk away or create something better. I decided to take the risk and build the organization I wished already existed—one that was responsive, engaged, and truly committed to changing lives. At the time, it felt like a huge gamble. I questioned whether another nonprofit was really needed and whether I could make it successful.
Looking back, I realize that sometimes the greatest risks lead to the most meaningful rewards. What started as an uncertain leap has become a life-changing organization for hundreds of students. A Bridge for Kids has grown beyond what I ever imagined—helping students get into top colleges, expanding our programs, and fostering a network of donors and volunteers who are invested in these kids’ futures.
My Perspective on Risk
I’ve learned that risk isn’t just about the possibility of failure—it’s about the potential for impact. If something truly matters, playing it safe isn’t always the best option. Had I waited for the perfect nonprofit to come along, I would have missed the opportunity to build one that genuinely listens to and serves students.
For me, risk-taking is about recognizing a problem, trusting your instincts, and being willing to take action—even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed. In the end, the biggest risk isn’t starting something new—it’s looking back and wondering what could have been if you hadn’t tried.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ABFK.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abridgeforkids
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-bridge-for-kids
