About six years ago, Rachel Hart first learned about The Bridge Over Troubled Waters while running the Kemah 10K.
She remembers seeing The Bridge’s name at the race, visiting the organization’s website and learning about its work in the community. At the time, she had no idea that she would one day become part of that mission.
This year, Rachel returned to the Kemah 10K as a member of The Bridge’s Board of Directors. Wearing her Bridge shirt, she completed the race while proudly representing the organization she first discovered along the same route years earlier.
For Rachel, supporting survivors is also closely connected to her professional experience. She has worked as an emergency room nurse for 20 years and has cared for many people affected by domestic and sexual violence.
“Most of the time, we are the first people they tell about what happened,” Hart said. “It has taught me empathy and patience and how to build people’s trust.”
Listening to survivors describe what they have experienced can be difficult, but Rachel said her work has taught her the importance of staying calm, listening carefully and creating a sense of trust during vulnerable moments.
Now that her children are grown, Rachel has more time to volunteer and give back to her community. She joined The Bridge’s Board just a few months ago and has already found meaningful ways to show her support.
“I enjoy being on the board and learning more about The Bridge,” Hart said. “I want to give back to my community and be a positive representative for the organization.”
Her support will not stop at the Kemah finish line. Rachel has also signed up for the Houston Half Marathon, where she will once again represent The Bridge and help bring attention to its mission.
Rachel’s commitment reflects the heart of The Bridge’s Every Month Matters campaign. Supporting survivors is not limited to one race, one event or one moment. It requires people who are willing to continue showing up so that safety, healing and hope remain available when survivors need them.
The Bridge is grateful to Rachel for running with purpose, serving with compassion and carrying our mission with her, mile after mile.
Every mile matters. Every survivor matters. Every month matters.
To join Rachel in supporting survivors through a recurring monthly gift, visit tbotw.org/everymonthmatters.
