About | History | Grantees

History

History & Background

The Lifebridge Foundation, Inc., was established in 1992 as a small, independent family foundation, co-founded by Barbara L. Valocore and her father, Paul M. Hancock. From its inception, the foundation embarked on an innovative journey into the realm of “holistic activism,” with a mission to foster the understanding of planetary unity and the interconnectedness of humanity. This broad and inclusive vision guided Lifebridge as it provided support to over 200 nonprofit organizations and individuals working toward these ideals.

Early Years: Building Connections

In its early years, Lifebridge recognized the importance of aligning with established organizations to amplify its mission. Collaborations with groups such as the Institute of Noetic Sciences and the New York Open Center allowed Lifebridge to extend its reach and deepen its understanding of the holistic movement. Soon, the foundation became recognized as a pioneer in supporting fledgling groups whose innovative projects often lacked traditional funding. Lifebridge’s grants served as a catalyst, helping many of these organizations grow, thrive, and secure additional support.

Expanding Horizons: United Nations Association

In 1997, Lifebridge took a significant step by becoming an NGO affiliated with the United Nations Department of Public Information. Despite its modest size, the foundation saw an opportunity to contribute to the global community of civil society organizations dedicated to the UN’s mission. On Human Rights Day, December 10, 1997, Lifebridge was granted associative status, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its service.

Nurturing Innovation: Grantee Gatherings

As Lifebridge grew, so did its desire to foster connections among its grantees. In 1997, inspired by Rupert Sheldrake’s vision of exploring the consciousness of the Sun, Lifebridge hosted its first conference—a bold and unconventional gathering that encouraged collaboration across disciplines. This success led to annual grantee meetings, where participants shared ideas, built networks, and found common ground in their work toward holistic activism. These gatherings underscored the power of connection and the shared mission of creating a better world.

Communication and Outreach

In the late 1990s, Lifebridge expanded its communication efforts by launching The Bridging Tree, a semi-annual newsletter that highlighted grantee achievements, emerging trends, and UN-related activities. A new website soon followed, attracting thousands of visitors and serving as a hub for information and inspiration.

A New Chapter: Lifebridge Sanctuary

In 2005, the foundation shifted its focus to the establishment of the Lifebridge Sanctuary, a retreat center designed to support transformative work and deepen the foundation’s mission. While grantmaking paused, the “family” of grantees continued to thrive, strengthened by a growing network of like-minded organizations and supporters.

A Legacy of Connection

Barbara Valocore, reflecting on her childhood and the foundation’s work, likened the journey of Lifebridge to being carried on her father’s shoulders—a symbol of elevation and inspiration. The foundation’s commitment to fostering unity, courage, and goodwill remains at the heart of its legacy. The Lifebridge Foundation leaves behind a vibrant network of organizations and individuals dedicated to the ideals of planetary harmony and holistic transformation.

About | History | Grantees

A Word About Beginnings

By Evelyn W. Hancock

Paul M. Hancock, principal donor and co-founder of The Lifebridge Foundation, loved flying and “sky talk” as he called it. He was also fascinated by the discoveries of Marconi and the legendary electrical genius, Nikola Tesla, so it was only natural that he gravitated into broadcasting, working first for Mutual and later at NBC.

In 1964 while at NBC, a timely “co-incidence” enabled him to acquire the franchise licenses for twelve rural towns in mid-Connecticut. Even then, he was aware of the possibilities of this emerging technology, demonstrating the prescience common to visionary thinkers. CATV (Community Antennae Television) as it was then called, was an early technological breakthrough which initially facilitated clearer television reception in remote and mountainous areas with poor channel reception and signal quality, clearly something desirable to the people in those areas. Fourteen years later in 1978, after countless hours of fundraising (mostly asking friends to invest as partners), New Milford Cablevision was born and started operations with only two employees. In late 1992, Paul sold his share of the business to Crown Media, and with a major portion of his share of ownership, The Lifebridge Foundation, Inc. was launched. Paul was then 78 years old. He died in 1995.

Evelyn W. Hancock was Chairperson of The Lifebridge Foundation Board of Directors.