Investing in Futures: Bridges to Healthcare Earns “Partners with Purpose” Recognition

This spring brought a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community invests in its future. Novant Health’s Bridges to Healthcare internship program, funded by the Novant Health Foundation, was named the inaugural recipient of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Partners with Purpose Award.

Presented at the first-ever CMS Partner Impact Awards on May 21, 2026, this honor recognizes organizations that go beyond the bottom line to make a meaningful, lasting difference for students and schools. It is a fitting recognition for a program built on opportunity, mentorship and belief in the next generation of healthcare leaders.

A Program Built on Opportunity

Bridges to Healthcare opens doors for high school students across our communities, many of whom are exploring healthcare careers for the very first time. Through hands-on internships, mentorship and guided career exploration, students gain real-world exposure to clinical and non-clinical roles across Novant Health.

Just as importantly, they gain confidence.

They begin to see themselves not just as students, but as future nurses, physicians, therapists, technicians and leaders in healthcare. They build relationships with mentors who encourage and guide them. They discover pathways they may not have otherwise imagined possible.

This is the impact philanthropy makes possible.

Powered by Generosity

The Bridges to Healthcare program exists and grows because of donor support. Philanthropy fuels every aspect of the experience, from program coordination and educational resources to mentorship opportunities and career development.

It is a powerful example of how giving through Novant Health Foundation strengthens not only patient care today, but the healthcare workforce of tomorrow.