Community Partner Spotlight: OneBridge Advisors
At OneBridge Advisors, their partnership with Better2gether was sparked by a powerful moment during a Synapse meeting, where Stephanie Becker, Executive Director of Better2gether, passionately shared the organization’s mission. Her words immediately resonated with Dean Francis, the firm’s founder. She spoke about the immense challenges families with medically complex children face and how Better2gether fills a crucial gap in supporting them. Dean said, “We don’t just join causes—we join people. Stephanie’s big heart, unwavering commitment to making a difference, and her ability to inspire everyone around her was deeply moving to me that day. As we’ve witnessed the growing need for Better2gether’s services, our appreciation for the organization has only deepened.”
"This mission hits home for me," said Dean Francis, CEO & Senior Consultant at OneBridge Advisors. "My cousin was born with Down Syndrome, and I saw firsthand the shock my aunt and uncle experienced. Having a strong support network helped lift a tremendous burden off their shoulders, allowing them to connect with others who truly understood their journey. Better2gether addresses that same vital need for families with medically complex children. Stephanie’s leadership is unmatched; she’s truly the right person for this mission, and her enthusiasm is infectious."
One of the most impactful moments for Dean while working with Better2gether has been hearing the personal stories of the families they serve. “Every time I hear about their experiences, I am reminded of the incredible sacrifices these families make—often 24/7. It makes me reflect on what more I can do to help," Dean shared. "Whether it’s attending an event or making a donation, any small inconvenience I might experience is nothing compared to the commitment these families live with every day.”
It’s clear that the difference Better2gether is making is monumental. Meeting Stephanie only reinforced their dedication to this cause. For those who haven’t yet attended a Better2gether event, Dean encourages you to do so—it’s impossible to leave without feeling inspired by the incredible work being done.
Collaborating with other community partners, volunteers, and staff has been a deeply rewarding experience. Dean noted, "I love building a network of like-minded individuals who are driven by a shared sense of purpose. These relationships have enriched my life, and they’ve only strengthened my commitment to Better2gether’s mission."
For anyone considering becoming a volunteer or partner with Better2gether, Dean’s advice is simple: dive in. “Being involved with a nonprofit of this caliber offers a healthy perspective on the true purpose of business and life. There’s immense fulfillment when you leverage your business success to help others. It helps you grow as a person, while also bringing you together with others who strive to make a real difference in the community.”
What makes Better2gether stand out is its authentic approach to supporting families in ways that other organizations might overlook. It’s not just about providing resources—it’s about building deep, lasting relationships with families, volunteers, and community partners. This genuine approach has only strengthened Dean’s commitment to the cause.
“At OneBridge Advisors, we specialize in uncovering tax credits often missed by traditional accounting services, especially for nonprofits. Over the past two years, we’ve helped secure over $25 million in tax credits for nonprofits. Partnering with Better2gether has been one of the most rewarding experiences we’ve had," Dean concluded, "and we look forward to continuing our support for many years to come."