One of the most powerful things we can do to change the future is to equip young people with the skills they need to bounce back, grow strong, and thrive — especially when the odds are stacked against them. That’s why we’re honored to feature Resilience Across Borders as our latest addition to the Bright Initiatives Library.
Founded by clinical psychologist Mary K. Alvord, this nonprofit is dismantling systemic barriers to mental health care by bringing resilience-building programs directly into schools and afterschool settings — places where all students can access them without cost or stigma. The organization’s Resilience Builder Program–Universal reaches entire classrooms of economically marginalized youth with tools that are not only evidence-informed but also immediately usable in real life.
The work is grounded in research and partnership: outcome studies are conducted with Dr. Brendan Rich at Catholic University and a team of research fellows, ensuring that the programs are both effective and responsive to youth needs. But what makes this initiative shine even more brightly is its deep commitment to inclusion and access. By focusing on whole-class delivery and strategic targeting of underserved areas, Resilience Across Borders is showing what it means to serve every child, not just those lucky enough to already have support.
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