About Us
"To remove the walls that stand between generation to generation, people to people, country to country and build a single unified community in Love."
Building the Bridge, USA.
Story of Hope
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How We Started
We reside in Syracuse, New York, and first met our neighbors in the Northside through the Boaz computer class project. Since 2007, the Boaz team has built deep relationships with newly resettled refugees. Through this work, we witnessed firsthand the unique challenges "new Americans" face as they navigate their first years in the city.
We quickly realized that these families are full of immense potential. However, language barriers and a lack of local resources often prevent them from sharing their talents or influencing the community. This is why we decided to "build the bridge." Our organization serves as a platform that empowers residents to unlock their potential and share their skills with the city.
We believe our projects will help make Syracuse a historic site of opportunity. By highlighting the history, traditions, and diverse talents of our refugee neighbors, we help create a path for every resident to shape the future of the city we all call home.
From Vision to Reality
2010
Initial vision for Building the Bridge (BTB)
2016
Building the Bridge USA formally established
2018
First BTB House acquired and opened (BTB House I)
2019
Building the Bridge Foundation established
2022
Launch of refugee housing repair & community programs
2024
Home Maintenance Training Program funded and implemented
2026 -
Advancing the Vision
Our Team
Junghoon Ryu
Founder of Building the Bridge Foundation
Resident of the Syracuse area since 2005.Involved in ministry supporting the resettlement of refugees residing in the Syracuse area since 2007.His child also returned to Syracuse after graduating from college and is working professionally while serving in refugee ministry.
