At Bridgeport Rescue Mission, transformation doesn’t stop with the people we serve — it starts with the people who serve them. The Professional Development Training Academy exists to strengthen the skills, confidence, and compassion of those working on the frontlines of poverty, addiction, homelessness, and trauma.
Led by nationally recognized trainer MaryAnn Gardner, this initiative provides staff, volunteers, and community leaders with the tools they need to lead with integrity, care deeply, and serve more effectively.
Whether you’re working in human services, faith-based ministry, recovery programs, or community outreach, these engaging and practical trainings will help you grow — professionally, personally, and spiritually.
MaryAnn Gardner, MS, M.Ed., HS-BCP
With over 45 years of experience in human services, education, and recovery support, MaryAnn Gardner, MS, M.Ed., HS-BCP brings passion and wisdom to every training. As BRM’s Director of Training and Community Engagement, she designs programs that strengthen individuals and organizations alike.
MaryAnn is a Board-Certified Practitioner, ordained chaplain, and college educator who has taught more than 200 courses. She’s also available for speaking, consulting, and custom training.
Why Attend Our Trainings?
- Gain practical tools and inspiring insights from a nationally respected leader
- Earn CEUs for professional development
- Engage in interactive learning experiences
- Network with like-minded professionals
Who Can Attend?
Community guests & partners – Affordable pricing based on training duration
Rates:
- 1 Hour $50
- 90 Min $75
- 2 Hours $100
- 4 Hours $200
- 6 Hours $250
📝 Payment by check to Bridgeport Rescue Mission. Sessions are held at 725 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT.
Available Trainings Include:
- Reasoning & Critical Thinking
- Conflict Resolution
- Trauma-Informed Care (Faith-Informed)
- Addiction Recovery & Relapse Prevention
- Parenting Skills
- Executive Functioning
- Emotional Intelligence
- Motivational Interviewing
- Workplace Violence Prevention
- De-escalation & Crisis Response
- Leadership & Staff Development
- Social Emotional Learning
- Ethical Practices & Professional Boundaries
- Human Services System Navigation
- Dozens more — Contact us for a full course list!
Signature Series: Master Leadership Training (Classes 1–10)
Accredited CEU Series for professionals in addiction recovery, human services, and faith-based leadership.
Each master class includes measurable learning outcomes and interactive methods. Topics include:
- Self-Discipline – Strengthening professional consistency
- Wise Choices – Enhancing ethical decision-making
- Unhealed Resentment – Exploring childhood impact on leadership
- Emotional Balance – Avoiding burnout, staying grounded
- Heart Hunger – Motivation and emotional needs
- Moral Courage – Navigating challenges with integrity
- Problem-Solving Skills – Thinking critically under pressure
- Compassionate Leadership – Leading with dignity and empathy
- DBT Crisis Skills – Emotional stabilization in addiction recovery
- Optimistic Leadership – Cultivating positive team culture
All courses are CEU-compliant and aligned with behavioral health, recovery, and human services best practices.
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Ready to Get Started?
Equipping people with the tools for lasting change starts with strong, compassionate leaders—and we’d love for you to be one of them. Whether you're a human services professional, a faith leader, or someone passionate about walking alongside others in recovery, our training opportunities are designed to empower you with practical skills and spiritual insight. Join us in building a community of care where hope is restored and lives are transformed—one training at a time.