Main Campus Dedication
Ralph D. Summers Campus
Life Bridges honored one of its founders on December 2, 2021 by dedicating their main facilities at 764 Old Chattanooga Pike as the Ralph D. Summers Campus. Ralph and Sue Summers envisioned an organization like Life Bridges back in the early 1970’s to provide support for their son, Alan. Ralph’s early vision has continued to materialize and has resulted in a better life for many in our community.
Board member, Dr. Raymond Brown, welcomed a large crowd to the dedication ceremony including family members, our local county and city mayors, Life Bridges staff, and some of the supported community members who are benefitting from Mr. Summers desire to help those facing the challenges of the developmentally delayed. Dr. Brown added that the Life Bridges Board of Directors is committed to ensuring that the needed support will continue for a very long time.
Bradley County Mayor, D. Gary Davis, presented a joint proclamation on behalf of Cleveland City Mayor, Kevin Brooks and himself declaring December 2, 2021 as Ralph Summers Day. Mayor Davis said, “I think Ralph would be very happy.” Brian Summers added that his father would be humbled by the honor. Cyndi Summers said that developing Life Bridges really was his life’s work and his dream came true.
Life Bridges became an agency in 1973, developed by individuals like Ralph Summers and assisted by parents, teachers, physicians and ministers who saw the need for services to support people with developmental disabilities and their families.
Today, Life Bridges has grown from those early visions of Mr. Summers to an organization that provides support for over 175 individuals with developmental disabilities utilizing a staff of 420 dedicated individuals. Supported individuals receive employment services, opportunities for participation in community activities, medical services, and a comprehensive selection of therapeutic services, including; physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language pathology, nutrition, and behavioral analysis.
“His presence has and will continue to provide direction for all we do,” continued Dr, Brown. “Thank you Ralph. Rest in peace.”
Ralph D. Summers passed away on April 22, 2021 and served as a Life Bridges board member for over 48 years.
