Saturday, March 9, at 5 p.m at Buck Hill, Burnsville.
In 1987, Founder Fran Heitzman created Bridging through a profound act of kindness, assisting a woman in finding a new home for her old nursery furniture.
Recognizing the simplicity of the concept, Fran envisioned Bridging as a conduit for redistributing unneeded household items to people who need it. Over the years, Fran’s vision has evolved into a community-driven nonprofit organization that furnishes homes for more than 5,000 households each year through its two large warehouses in Bloomington and Roseville.
Although he passed away in 2020, Fran’s enduring legacy is celebrated through signature events like The Original Mattress Factory Bedrace for Bridging. This annual event was close to Fran’s heart and provides significant funding and awareness for Bridging.
“This was Dad’s day,” says Fran’s son Mike Heitzman. “He loved it, watching all the costumes, and he would just laugh! He is still here. From day one, he intended Bridging to be community-based. His legacy keeps going, continuing what he started.”
The Original Mattress Factory Bedrace for Bridging, now in its 26th year, is a blast! Each year at Buck Hill, participants speed down the tubing hill, the crowd cheers on the racers at the base of the hill, and a party atmosphere and themed costumes all foster a sense of creativity and friendly competition. Thanks to the unwavering support of sponsors, passionate individuals, neighbors, and newfound friends along the way, the event continues to thrive, promising many more years of shared exhilaration.
Minnesota’s Original Mattress Factory has played a pivotal role in supporting Bridging’s mission. For two years, they have underwritten the event and provided 20 mattresses for the Bedrace. Throughout the year, this valued partner helps fill Bridging’s warehouses with mattresses and box springs. The commitment of the Original Mattress Factory team reflects a profound dedication by their company and its leaders to making a positive impact in the community.
Register now and join us for the fun at The Original Mattress Factory BEDRACE FOR BRIDGING on Saturday, March 9, at 5 p.m. at Buck Hill in Burnsville. Onsite registration and check-in begin at 3:30 p.m. Your generous donations and participation will help Bridging strive to achieve its vision that everyone lives in a furnished home.
Visit bridging.org to register and share in the spirit of the Bedrace!
