Established in 1998, Bridges to New Life is the largest Christian post-release support network in the Okanagan. We support the needs of those who have been impacted by crime.
Our History
Our Leadership
Glen Kyle
Executive Director
Glen Kyle joined Bridges to New Life Society in 2021. Working with the board of Directors and staff, Glen is in process of implementing several ambitious strategic priorities that are moving Bridges to New Life forward. Prior to his appointment at Bridges, Glen worked for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs as a grant analyst, providing over 100M in funding to infrastructure needs around British Columbia.
Glen has his Master’s degree’s in Christian Ministries from Briercrest Seminary, and a Master’s in Leadership from Royal Roads University. Glen has been in full time ministry positions for over 15 years and taught part time at a small discipleship school for several years. Glen also served on the Sanctuary Youth Centre Board in Victoria, and loves opportunities to serve the local church.
Lester Mesenbrink
Resident Support Worker
Lester joined Bridges to New Life Society in 2024, brining with him over 29 years of experience in ministry and community service. He served for 13 years as a Chaplain at the Kelowna Gospel Mission and 16 years as a lead pastor, consistently offering, care, compassion and spiritual guidance.
Lester brings his pastoral heart to the men we serve, offering them support, resources, and the direction they need to rebuild their lives after incarceration. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies and a Masters of Arts in Human Services with a focus on Counselling and Psychology.
Through weekly mentorship, Lester walks alongside each man, encouraging them to set meaningful priorities and take steps toward restoring their lives and reaching their goals. He also contributes to the broader community as a board member of two local organizations.
Our Board of Directors are a passionate group of people who are excited to see Bridges to New Life Society create bridges for people towards a new life away from crime and a new life in relationship with Jesus.
Our Board members are: Richard DeJong, Cliff Brandes, Robert Ens, Dorothy McEvoy, and Jason Legg.
Bridges to New Life Society is a registered Canadian Charity #88963 7823 RR0001 and our vision is to offer new life to those impacted by crime.
Affiliations:
Canadian Centre for Christian Charities.
Coalition of Prison Evangelists (since 1998)
Restorative Justice Ministry Network (since 2003)
Member of the International Network of Prison Ministries (since 2004)
Member of Kelowna Chamber of Commerce (since 2023)
Our Supporters Include:
Southern Interior Churches
Felsen Foundation
Calgary Foundation
City of Kelowna
Bridges to New Life Society receives an independent annual review by: Kemp Harvey Hunt Ward Inc.