The People's Money (2024-2025)

East Harlem

Youth

Justice Impacted People

Immigrants/ Migrants

LGBTQ+ People

Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color

The "Thrive Together" program addresses the urgent challenge of promoting emotional and physical well-being among youth, particularly in the face of rising mental health crises and increasing rates of suicide among young people. This program recognizes several interconnected issues that need to be tackled: Challenges to Address: Mental Health Crisis Among Youth: Anxiety, depression, and stress are becoming alarmingly common in children and teens, compounded by the pressures of social media, academic expectations, and personal challenges. Many students lack access to resources or a safe space to express their emotions and learn coping mechanisms. Stigma Around Mental Health: Talking about mental health and seeking help is often stigmatized, leaving many young people feeling isolated and unsupported. Lack of Suicide Prevention Education: Many youth are unaware of the warning signs of suicide or how to seek help for themselves or their peers. Parents and educators often struggle to address this issue in a proactive, age-appropriate way. Physical Inactivity and Poor Self-Care: Sedentary lifestyles and poor nutritional habits contribute to both physical and emotional challenges, including decreased self-esteem and energy levels. Many children and teens are unaware of the connection between physical activity, nutrition, and emotional health. Social Disconnection: The COVID-19 pandemic and other societal challenges have exacerbated feelings of isolation, reducing opportunities for youth to build meaningful relationships and support systems. Program Goal: The "Thrive Together" program aims to address these challenges by creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where students can: Learn practical tools for emotional self-care and resilience. Build physical health through fun, accessible activities. Develop peer connections and support systems. Recognize the importance of mental health and suicide prevention as part of overall well-being.

"Thrive Together" program provides a holistic solution to the challenges of youth mental health, suicide prevention, and physical well-being through an engaging, inclusive, and proactive approach. The program is designed to empower young people to take care of themselves emotionally and physically while building a strong support network within their communities. 1. Education and Skills Development Interactive Workshops: Age-appropriate, engaging sessions that teach practical emotional self-care techniques like mindfulness, stress management, and emotional regulation. Suicide Prevention Education: Students learn to identify warning signs of emotional distress, how to support peers, and the importance of seeking help. Peer-Led Support Circles: Regular, facilitated discussions to encourage open communication, reduce stigma, and foster community. 2. Physical Activity and Healthy Living Fun, Active Trips: Activities like hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking show students how movement can enhance mental and physical well-being. Nutrition Awareness: Workshops include hands-on activities like cooking healthy snacks, teaching how proper nutrition fuels emotional health. 3. Community Building and Connection Team-Based Activities: Group challenges and games promote collaboration, trust, and mutual support. Peer Mentorship: Older students act as role models for younger participants, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership. 4. A Supportive Framework Resource Toolkit: Each participant receives a resource booklet with emergency hotlines, self-care tips, and a "Tough Times Toolkit" to support them in challenging moments. Parent Involvement: Optional workshops and materials for parents to learn how to support their children and recognize mental health challenges. 5. Long-Term Impact Sustainable Self-Care Habits: By integrating physical activity, mindfulness, and emotional education, the program creates lasting habits that students can carry forward. School and Community Collaboration: Partnerships with schools and local organizations ensure the program has a wider reach and creates a ripple effect in promoting youth well-being. Why This Solution Works Proactive: Addresses mental health and physical health before they become crises. Engaging: Combines fun activities with practical lessons to keep students interested and motivated. Inclusive: Designed to meet the needs of different age groups and developmental stages. Accessible: Offers resources and tools that students can use both during and after the program.

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