A new school year has begun. The excitement of new teachers, new classmates and new experiences is present for many young people. But for some children and teens – especially those experiencing mental health challenges – the new school year can be daunting,.
As mentors, educators, parents and youth advocates, we have a responsibility to make sure young people have the resources and support they need to be successful in school and in life.
If you encounter a young person in crisis, do you know the steps to take to ensure his or her safety or wellbeing?
Earlier this summer, I became certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid. And the training didn’t cost a dime.
What is Youth Mental Health First Aid?
It’s a course designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis.
Many organizations/institutions across the nation are offering the eight-hour course FREE of charge. Find a course in your community today.
September is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month. If you know someone at risk, don’t be afraid to intervene. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 if you or someone you know needs help.


Want to start a STEM program for your kindergarten class or host a financial literacy night for teens and parents in your community? If your school, community organization or house of workshop can use some extra funding to support extracurricular programming, then you should definitely check out this resource.
Celebrity dads like Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors inspire us. Each time we see him interacting with daughter, Riley, our hearts melt.
By now, many of you reading this post probably have received invitations to commencement ceremonies and/or graduation open houses. This is a special time of year for graduates, families and friends. Their hard work throughout the years has paid off.