Because collective healing begins with courageous connection.

The Heart Behind the Initiative

Healing in Community is a multi-phase initiative led by Step’s Foundation that brings together students, families, professionals, and a dedicated team of community partners to center wellness through real stories, honest conversations, and intentional connection. This project addresses mental health through a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based lens, highlighting the lived experiences that often go unheard.

At its core, this initiative is designed to reflect what’s possible when families are equipped to have healthier conversations and communities are given the tools to break stigma and engage in more supportive, healing-centered practices. Each phase builds upon the last — creating awareness, elevating voices, and designing pathways for healing that are community-built and community-owned.

Phases of Healing in Community

Phase 1: Listening & Learning

Barrier Talks Focus Groups (Sept–Nov 2025)

We’ll start by listening, hosting focus groups with teens, families, community leaders, and behavioral health professionals to explore real mental health challenges, stigma, and access gaps.

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Phase 2: Equipping the Village

Community Mental Health Trainings (Nov 2025–Jan 2026)

We’ll build capacity by offering Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) and Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention training for parents, educators, mentors, and youth leaders.
Goal: Certify at least 30 people in each program.

Phase 3: Voices in Action

Teen Summit: Breaking Barriers (March 2026)

We’ll elevate youth voices by bringing together students, families, and local partners for a powerful day of healing, connection, and youth-led solutions, where we’ll also showcase key focus group findings and our growing community impact.

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Phase 4: The Joy We Carry

Reclaiming Joy Series (May–June 2026)

We’ll close the initiative with reconnection, offering a three-part workshop series focused on creative expression, movement, and emotional healing, culminating in a Community Celebration of Joy and Resilience.

Whats Coming Up

Resources

Meet Our Community Partners

Healing in Community is made possible through the dedication of local partners who believe in collaborative wellness and shared leadership.