Five CityBridge values inform our work and should—with constancy—infuse our interactions with each other and with all participants in our work. These values are:

1. Finding Right Ideas
Our approach to complex social problems is one of optimism—a belief that right ideas and solutions exist, that human potential and achievement are always within reach.

2. Service to a Common Good
Certain goals—such as mutual service or excellent education for all—can serve to unite all citizens, binding them together as one strong civic family. Our work should uplift, and it should unite.

3. Building a “Destination Sector”
We reject the notion that nonprofit work is a second-class talent destination, or that we need not strive for results. The quality of our own work product and talent base, and those of our partners, should consistently exceed the expectations of the marketplace.

4. Conscious Collaboration
All CityBridge work should foster mutual respect and conscious linkages among citizens, especially between those historically divided by race, class, or neighborhood.

5. Leaning Forward
As individuals, we hold ourselves to the highest standard, seeking constant opportunities for growth as people and as practitioners.