Celebrating Circle Impact

We are all connected. One Circle Foundation is grateful to showcase the transformative work of our partnering organizations and Circle facilitators worldwide in empowering youth. Through their dedication and dynamic implementation of Circles, our partners create safe, inclusive spaces where young people are inspired to grow, connect, and thrive. By sharing these stories, we hope you feel a sense of connection, inspiration, and hope as you lead Circles within your organization.

Please get to know one of these incredible facilitators and hear her story.

What inspired you to start doing this meaningful work with youth, and what excites you most about being part of your organization?

Growing up, I did not have anyone in my corner. Without going into too much detail, I have a very high ACE score. As a child and teenager, I was not offered any tools or support to be successful after trauma. I had very few people in my life I could depend on to provide support. I started this journey hoping to be a listening ear for at least one youth going through a tough time. It has grown into so much more. I am excited to see where we can take our organization this coming year.

The CDC reports a mental health crisis among youth, with 4 in 10 high schoolers experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness. How have you seen this play out in your programs, and how do your Circle programs step in to support youth facing these challenges? 

We actually facilitated a vote for our Girls Inc. theme for our Network Anniversary. At our affiliate, we see this slightly higher. 2/3 of our youth voted for Youth Mental Health Awareness. This is a large concern for our rural area. We find that having Circle Time is very impactful for our girls. This shows them that they are not alone in feeling these feelings, and they can find support with each other. We also remind them that they can always reach out to us at any time and provide a list of other community resources.

Can you share a success story that shows Circles’ on young people?

One student in particular, this is our third year with her as a Girls Inc. NSV member. This last year, Sadie has become more self-confident in Girls Inc. NSV Programs. Sadie is an active participant in our weekly programs and has joined our Youth Leadership Council to continue to grow her leadership skills. She has become bolder in her actions, stepping out of her comfort zone by joining our annual camping trip and even participating in our rock climbing activity. Sadie is a strong, smart, and bold Girls Inc. girl; we are very proud of her.

What’s one pro-tip you’d share with someone eager to start Circles in their programming? Any insider advice to help them make the most impact?

My best advice starting out is 2-fold. DO THE TRAINING!! It was life-changing for us! It really changed the way we look at facilitating. If you can afford to buy all the binders and go all in, do that! If you can only buy one, start with the Friendship Activity Guide. You do you and what suits your budget, BUT start with the training!

What else would you like to share with the One Circle Foundation community? Any insights, experiences, or messages that you think would resonate with them?

Keep doing what you are doing! The youth are listening; it may not always look like it, but they hear you!

Article provided by: One Circle Foundation | 734 A Street, Suite A | San Rafael , CA 94901 US