Our History
Before the establishment of Bridges Oregon, many members of the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities faced systemic barriers to accessing essential resources such as legal advocacy, mental health services, and victim support. The lack of culturally competent services left individuals feeling isolated, misunderstood, and unrepresented.
During his tenure as President of the Oregon Association of the Deaf (OAD) from 2013 to 2017, Chad A. Ludwig traveled across the state, meeting individuals from diverse backgrounds within the Deaf community. A common message resonated everywhere he went: “We want services!” He took this to heart, dedicating himself to legislative advocacy and policy reform.
In 2014, Chad began laying the groundwork for systemic change, forming an advisory committee within the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). Over the years, the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities continued to advocate for legislative support, pushing for funding to establish much-needed services. Despite repeated legislative efforts in 2007, 2009, 2015, 2017(#1), 2017(#2), 2019, 2021(#1), and 2021(#2), progress remained slow. In 2015, Oregon legislators allocated funding for a community-based needs assessment, conducted by Western Oregon University and published in December 2016. The findings reinforced what the community already knew: comprehensive services were essential. However, when proposed legislation to address these needs failed in 2017, it became clear that a dedicated nonprofit organization was necessary.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Chad founded Bridges Oregon to ensure that the voices of Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing, Late-Deafened, and individuals with hearing loss were heard and their needs addressed. Through dedicated advocacy, outreach, and education, Bridges Oregon became the first and only nonprofit of its kind in the state, committed to fostering equality and justice in areas that directly impact these communities.
The journey to establishing Bridges Oregon was not without its challenges. Chad invested immense effort, passion, and personal sacrifice to bring the organization to life. His dedication has been instrumental in shaping the agency into a vital resource for the community. His unwavering leadership, legislative advocacy, and ability to foster relationships with key stakeholders have driven meaningful change.
As Bridges Oregon continues to grow, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to advance accessibility, advocacy, and opportunity. The work is far from over, but the impact is undeniable. Through collective efforts, the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities in Oregon will continue to thrive with pride, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to equality for all.
Name & Logo
“Bridges” came with an idea that the City of Portland is also known as “Bridge City” or “BridgeTown;” the city has 12 bridges that cross the Willamette River. A Bridge is a structure that connects over an obstacle. Finally, Bridges also symbolizes a transition.
“Oregon” is to affirm that we provide service statewide.
The hand image was conceptualized by the Founder of Bridges Oregon in honor of the implementation of the organization. The hands and fingers represent the language, communication, and culture. The open palm represents hospitality. The sign for Bridges Oregon is similar to “implementation” where all fingers meet together and this represents the individual, community, and intersectionality that this organization provides to the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing community. The fingers touch each other in the form of tactile language used by DeafBlind individuals who rely on protactile language. The thumb reaches out toward the organization’s name, like a bridge.
The primary color of the logo is purple and represents several core values. First and foremost it represents anti-violence (e.g., domestic violence, intimate relationship violence, and victims of homophobia). Secondly, it represents the Oregon School for the Deaf (OSD), whose school colors are purple and yellow. OSD is the state residential school for the Deaf and was established in November 1870. Residential schools were the crucibles in which Deaf culture was forged and were a focal point for the community for decades. Bridges Oregon also uses Russian Violet, Rhythm Purple, Davys Grey, Mikado Yellow, and Isabelline White.
The font style of the logo is Raleway.
