SOURCES OF STRENGTH
Teaching Kids To Find The Sources of Strength All Around Them
Who We Help + Why It Matters
We are a group of diverse students and adults from many different corners and cultures of our school and community. We believe that life has ups and downs, that all of us will go through good times and tough times. Our mission is to ensure that during the rough times no one gets so overwhelmed or hopeless that they want to give up
Our mission is to spread Hope, Help, and Strength into every corner of our community.
This program matters because statistics show that Alaska has the highest rates of youth suicide, drinking and drug use in the whole country. This program is strikingly successful because we teach students and staff how to connect to the sources of strength and support that are all around them.
We believe that when we use the power of our voice, we can BREAK THE SILENCE, and help people get the help they need when they are struggling. Teaching people to speak up when help is needed can literally save lives.
We Spread Hope by focusing on stories of strength, rather than on stories of trauma.
Meaning, we not only teach kids how to manage their stress right now, but we also give them tools they need to feel confident, inspired, and emotionally empowered for LIFE!
“Sources Of Strength” is a life-changing program that:
Radically changes school culture, by creating a huge, loving support network made up of community volunteers (Adult Advisors), and even volunteer students (known as “Peer Leaders”)!
Peer leaders become positive agents of change at school, helping to connect friends with resources of support when they need it.
DE-STIGMATIZES talking about mental health (very important), and makes it totally normal for kids to openly talk about their feelings in school.
Gives kids POWERFUL, SIMPLE tools that help them connect to sources of strength during tough times.
Teaches kids how to look at life through a positive lens.
Encourages sharing stories of strength, to lead by examples and inspire others who are going through hard times.
Actively shows kids HOW to reach out for help when they’re going through hard times, so they know they’re not alone.
Literally helps to save the lives of kids every year.
Seeks to inspire EVERY child to love themselves, to love their school mates, and to go for their BIG DREAMS!
The Results are AMAZING!
300
students trained as Peer Leaders
40
positive message Inspiration Campaigns reaching over 1000 students
50+
community members trained as Adult Advisors
ZERO
youth suicides since implementation in 2016!!!
How You Can Help
01
You can be a mentor to a budding young leader (with a big heart) who has volunteered to be a “Peer Leader” at their school.
You’ll sit side by side with one of these young leaders as they design posters, t-shirts, and other materials for their “Inspiration Campaigns.” These campaigns help to create a more open, loving culture in schools and as the name implies – they are INSPIRING to be a part of!
02
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You can donate money here.