
James Breedlove is Board President of Bridge Builders Foundation with over 40 years of public service experience, recognized as a thought leader in culturally responsive youth development and equity-centered community leadership.

Melvin "Mel" Jackson, Jr. is a retired Director of Human Resources for Raytheon Company with over 40 years of HR experience, dedicated to advancing diversity, education, and community development through his service on multiple nonprofit boards.

Phillip L. Dunn is Board Secretary of Bridge Builders Foundation with extensive public administration experience, including 25 years as Executive Director of the Foothill Workforce Development Board, dedicated to advancing education and youth mentoring programs.

Reginald Gentry is a Senior Gas Trader at Southern California Gas Company with over 20 years of energy industry experience, dedicated to advancing supplier diversity and supporting underrepresented communities through his service on the Bridge Builders Foundation board.

Wayne Moore is a retired public administrator with extensive experience in county and municipal leadership.

Drake Dillard is an architect with over 50 years of international experience, currently serving as a California Commission on Disabilities Commissioner and OTIS College faculty member, dedicated to advancing STEAM education for underserved youth.

William Dillard is a retired Supervising Deputy Probation Officer with over 40 years of experience in juvenile and adult services, dedicated to mentoring youth through his service on the Bridge Builders Foundation board.

Theodore Irving is a Principal City Planner with the City of Los Angeles with expertise in urban planning and real estate development, dedicated to reducing educational and economic disparities through his service on the Bridge Builders Foundation board.

Thomas Dowdy, Jr. is a retired management professional with over 40 years of experience, currently serving as a Management Analyst for the City of Los Angeles while providing international disaster relief and conflict resolution training worldwide.

Bernard Jefferson is an aerospace engineering leader with over 33 years of industry experience, dedicated to advancing STEM education and empowering youth through his service on the Bridge Builders Foundation board.

Duane Hale is a Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield with over 25 years of institutional real estate experience, serving on the Bridge Builders Foundation Finance Committee to ensure fiscal integrity and transparent financial management.

Earl H Jones Jr is a retired Aerospace Engineer and Business Manager serving on the Board of Directors for the Bridge Builders Foundation (BBF).

Gerald Milfort is a Deputy Public Guardian for LA County with a diverse background in entertainment, media, and public service, dedicated to creating educational pathways for youth in the community.

William F. Smith brings over 40 years of clinical social work expertise and military leadership experience to his work supporting children and families in Los Angeles.

Alvin T. Trotter, Jr., is a respected transportation official and community advocate serving on the Board of Directors for the Bridge Builders Foundation (BBF).

Westley Sholes is an Emeritus Board Member and founding participant of Bridge Builders Foundation, bringing over 55 years of healthcare leadership and public service, including his role as former Deputy Director of Administrative Services for LA County Department of Health Services.






The Board of Directors provides governance, strategic oversight, and fiduciary responsibility, ensuring Bridge Builders Foundation remains aligned with its mission, values, and community priorities.
The leadership and staff team oversees daily operations, program development, and partnerships that support Bridge Builders Foundation’s work. The team collaborates closely with schools, families, and community partners to deliver accessible and impactful programs.
Bridge Builders Foundation is supported by volunteers, mentors, and community members who contribute their time, skills, and expertise. Their involvement plays an important role in program delivery and community engagement.

Support the people and partnerships behind our programs and help us continue building pathways to opportunity.