For the past 25 years, one remarkable individual has been at the heart of our mission, steering us toward greater heights of impact and influence. Today, we proudly celebrate the incredible journey of our CEO, Bridget Laird, whose dedication and visionary leadership have been instrumental in shaping Wings for Kids into what it is today.
A Journey of Passion and Commitment
Bridget’s journey with Wings for Kids began in 1998, when she joined forces with our spirited founder, Ginny Deerin. Together, they embarked on a mission to help kids live joyfully, powerfully, and responsibly, recognizing the profound impact emotional intelligence could have on young minds. Bridget’s passion for this cause was evident from day one, and her unwavering commitment has been a driving force behind our organization’s growth and success.
A Legacy of Transformation
Over the years, Bridget’s contributions to WINGS have been nothing short of transformative. She’s played a pivotal role in every aspect of our organization’s development, from crafting innovative programs and curricula to spearheading grant applications and research initiatives. Her leadership has paved the way for strategies that have led to the replication and scaling of our programs, making these critical life skills accessible to more children than ever before.
Guiding Wings for Kids to New Horizons
In January 2011, Bridget took the helm as CEO of Wings for Kids, a role she embraced with the same passion and determination that has defined her career. Under her visionary leadership, Wings for Kids expanded its reach to Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, Columbia, SC, and rural Lake City, SC, effectively increasing the number of children served by an astounding 300%.
A Visionary Partnership: Soar with Wings
One of Bridget’s most impactful achievements has been the development of a nationwide partnership with Discovery Education, the global leader in standards-based digital learning content for K-12 classrooms worldwide. This initiative, aptly named “Soar with Wings,” extends WINGS’ reach to millions of students across America, making social emotional learning an integral part of their educational journey. To date, this partnership has touched 4.8M students, educators, and classrooms.
A Bright Future Ahead
As we celebrate Bridget’s 25th anniversary with Wings for Kids, we look back with gratitude for her extraordinary contributions. Her optimistic attitude, ability to adapt to any challenge, and strong belief and trust in the WINGS team has led the organization to fly to new heights.
Looking ahead, we anticipate even greater achievements under Bridget’s continued guidance. Together, we will continue to soar, empowering children with the life skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Bridget’s legacy is a testament to the profound impact one person can have when driven by a deep and abiding passion for the well-being of children. Thank you, Bridget!
