Proven Technology
The term ‘proven’ is a word that gets thrown around a lot, but in our case we can now wear it with pride. Thanks to your generous support for the R&D of the most advanced, cutting edge mentorship, community-building technology in the world.
Your support of the HeroGive Foundation funds our continued, and now proven design principle R&D.
“While technology offers potential solutions for connectivity and support, current platforms are often inadequate or unsafe. There is a need for technological solutions that provide peer-to-peer support, emotional validation, and access to reliable resources. HeroBridge’s community technology incorporates diverse needs -emotional, informational, and social - in a single platform that improves adoption and impact.”
PRESS RELEASE: MIT Research Proves HeroBridge Technology’s Transformative Impact on Foster-Involved Youth
Los Angeles, CA – HeroBridge Media Technology announces groundbreaking findings that validate the efficacy of its innovative platform in fostering psychological well-being among foster-involved youth. Based on extensive research conducted by MIT MEDIA LABS, Affective Computing, (MIT) the HeroBridge platform demonstrates a proven ability to address systemic gaps in support for one of society’s most vulnerable populations.
Each year, over 600,000 youth enter the U.S. foster care system, often facing isolation, repeated disruptions, and inadequate support. MIT found: “While technology offers potential solutions for connectivity and support, current platforms are often inadequate or unsafe.” MIT’s researcher Ila Kumar phD found HeroBridge’s trauma-informed, peer-driven technology provides a vital solution, empowering foster-involved youth to build resilience, find meaningful connection, and access critical resources. The research-backed platform not only meets these needs but also exemplifies the transformative potential of technology to foster well-being across diverse communities.
“This research is a testament to the power of human-centered technology,” said Deborah Connelly, CEO at HeroBridge Media Technology. “The findings confirm that our approach—centered on peer support and safety—successfully bridges systemic gaps and empowers foster-involved youth to thrive. It also opens the door for our broader application of our now proven design principles.”
Proven Efficacy of HeroBridge’s Platform:
HeroBridge’s platform has been rigorously tested through pilot studies and MIT’s research has shown it to deliver significant benefits, including:
Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Youth reported improved self-reflection and reduced feelings of isolation.
Increased Social Connection: Peer-to-peer interactions fostered a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Improved Practical Outcomes: Participants accessed valuable resources and gained confidence in navigating life challenges.
The success of this platform demonstrates the effectiveness of trauma-informed design in addressing not just individual needs but systemic barriers.
Broader Implications:
While initially focused on foster-involved youth, the findings highlight the broader applicability of HeroBridge’s design principles and technology. This approach can be adapted to support other populations, including those transitioning out of incarceration, navigating addiction recovery, or facing displacement. The challenges these populations overcome provide us a lot of information on how we can build healthier and more productive and engaged corporate cultures, organizations and even faith communities. By fostering connection, providing resources, and building resilience, the HeroBridge app use-case has the potential to transform lives across a range of settings.
About HeroBridge Media Technology
Founded in 2018 by Deborah and Frank Connelly, HeroBridge Media Technology develops cutting-edge platforms that empower communities by addressing critical gaps in resources and relationships. Committed to ethical, human-centered design, HeroBridge partners with corporations, nonprofits and social impact organizations to scale their mission and make measurable change. Their on-going pursuit to stay at the cutting edge of mentorship and community-building technology is supported by their R&D arm, the HeroGive Foundation.
To learn more about HeroBridge’s technology or discuss its applications, contact Frank Connelly at frank@herobridgeLA.org. To give to the HeroGive Foundation, please visit https://www.herobridgela.org/funding
For a synopsis of the research findings click HERE.
