Saks’ Post

👉 Did you know that July is National BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month? According to the National Black Women's Justice Institute, BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month brings awareness to the specific mental health struggles faced by Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and other underrepresented peoples, due to the cycles of systemic oppression and years of marginalization. An article on academyhealth.org reports rates of homelessness were disproportionately higher for youth of color and multiracial youth, as well as BIPOC youth that also identify as LGBTQ+ 👉 Statistics show: ▫ Black or African American youth face an 83% increased risk of homelessness compared to their white peers ▫ Hispanic youth face a 33% increased risk for homelessness  ▫ Native American youth have more than double the risk for homelessness compared to other youth Youth experiencing homelessness have an increased likelihood of suffering from mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and Bi-polar disorder. In addition, homeless youth that struggle with mental health disorders are more likely to turn to substance use/abuse as a coping mechanism, in turn making it more difficult to escape the cycle of homelessness. BIPOC youth face many barriers to accessing quality health care, such as living in extreme poverty and lacking health insurance. Bridgeforyouth.org states that these factors, along with undiagnosed/untreated mental illness, increase the risk of experiencing homelessness. ✨ StandUp For Kids Oceanside partners with organizations to help homeless youth access the education and tools they need, including mentoring, counseling, case-management etc, to get off the street. We also engage and target at-risk youth to prevent the cycle of homelessness before it starts. Consider making a small donation today to brighten the future for homeless youth! Your donation can save a life! 💕 https://lnkd.in/gq-XhM8w #BIPOCmentalhealthawareness #nationalBIPOCmentalhealthawarenessmonth #endyouthhomelessness #StandUpForKids #donate #youth #equity #Oceanside #mentalhealth

Funding Opportunities Roundup Here’s a quick roundup of open grant opportunities in Denver! Know of others? Share them in the comments below! Opportunities from Rose Community Foundation https://lnkd.in/ejsMjvyh 💲 Newcomers Fund: Supports organizations serving newcomers from the Southern U.S. border. Ongoing applications Opportunities from DENVER POST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION https://lnkd.in/gksX87cK 💲Season to Share: nonprofit organizations in Metro Denver that focus on the program specific guidelines of Children and Youth, Health and Wellness, Homelessness and Hunger. Apply by 6/30 Opportunities from The Colorado Health Foundation https://lnkd.in/ggUxaeek 💲Community Initiated Solutions: For organizations working collaboratively with community members to address a health challenge, develop and implement a solution, leverage existing strengths and resources, and improve health equity. Apply by 6/15 💲Advancing Advocacy and Justice with Communities of Color: For organizations working toward health equity for people of color across the state and working on long-term movement-building strategies that make decision-makers accountable to communities and strengthen their power to influence policy. Apply by 6/15 💲Supporting Healthy Minds & Youth Resilience: For organizations that support youth of color and youth who identify as LGBTQ+ (age 12 - 18) as they explore and grow their resiliency through identity, agency and belonging. Apply by 6/15 💲Supporting Holistic, Culturally Responsive and Youth- Driven Physical Well-being: For organizations delivering high-quality, high-impact youth programs that advance physical well-being programming that is holistic, culturally responsive and informed or driven by youth and their families. Apply by 6/15 💲Supporting Coloradans in Recovery Through Non-clinical Programs: For organizations offering non-clinical mental health services to. Apply by 6/15

Today’s target is 123 push-ups, Achieved my personal target of 135 and some. Did You Know, for the 11% of LGBTQIA+ young people aged 16 and 17 who reported attempting suicide in 2019. Australian research found that more than one in 10 LGBTQIA+ study participants aged 16-17 had tried to take their own life in the past 12 months, almost three times the 3.8% observed in the general population. According to La Trobe University’s National Report on the health and wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ young people, poorer mental health and wellbeing among this community results from experiences of stigma, prejudice and discrimination, creating a stressful and hostile social environment. Social drivers of distress like homophobia, transphobia and associated discrimination are unfortunately still very much present. To counter this, it’s vital to support and celebrate diversity within our society. Many Australians who identify as LGBTQIA+ thrive, living healthy and fulfilling lives. Yet research highlights the disproportionate number who experience mental health challenges and are at increased risk of suicide, with 26% of LGBTQIA+ youth aged 16-17 reporting having made a suicide attempt in their lifetime. This data highlights the need to prioritise better mental health outcomes among this community. As a first step, it’s important to understand the unique cultural context experienced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition, the National Report suggested that help-seeking experiences are more likely to be positive when delivered via an LGBTQIA+ specific service so support for LGBTQIA+ specific mental health service providers would also be a powerful way to improve mental health outcomes within this community. You can find links to some of these services below: QLife: Offers free LGBTQIA+ peer support and referral. Minus18: A platform dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth. PFLAG Australia: A peer support group helping parents, families, and friends with loved ones identifying as LGBTQIA+. Black Rainbow: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBQTIA+SB support. LGBTIQ+ Health Australia: Provides a range of services and support for the LGBTIQ+ community. Queerspace: A dedicated organisation offering services and support. Why not support my push for change and make a charitable donation https://lnkd.in/gJ_SxeR2

HOW AMERICA GOT MEAN (part 1 of 2) — A timely read from The Atlantic, particularly during this election year in the US, with the rise in incivility and anxiety over the last few years, if not longer. Here is a summary and my take: In a world where moral teachings are rare, people are growing up in a self-focused culture without clear moral guidance. For the past several years, many have wondered: Why are Americans feeling so down? - Depression rates are rising, with more deaths from drugs, alcohol, and suicide. - Fewer people report close friendships or stable relationships, especially young adults. The second question is related: Why are Americans acting so mean? - Business owners report ejecting rude customers weekly. - Nurses are leaving their jobs due to abusive patients. - Hate crimes are on the rise, reaching their highest level in 12 years. - Murder rates have surged, and social trust is declining. - Charitable donations are decreasing. We're facing a crisis of emotions, relationships, and spirituality, which fuels our political dysfunction and threatens our democracy. What's happening? Different social observers have offered various explanations for the rise of hate, anxiety, and despair in recent years. To overcome this: 1. Prioritize Moral Education: Invest in curriculum development that emphasizes moral values, empathy, and kindness. Implement programs teaching ethical decision-making and promoting understanding and respect for others. 2. Promote Empathy and Kindness: Encourage acts of kindness and compassion through community service initiatives and volunteer opportunities. Create spaces for open dialogue and active listening to foster empathy and understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds. 3. Promote Positive Values: Schools, families, and communities should collaborate to reinforce positive values like honesty, integrity, and respect for others. Organize events and activities celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity. 4. Strengthen Meaningful Connections: Facilitate opportunities for meaningful interactions and relationship-building within schools and communities. Establish mentorship programs, peer support groups, and community engagement initiatives to foster a sense of belonging and connectedness. 5. Address Systemic Issues: Advocate for policy changes and allocate resources to address systemic issues contributing to social inequality, lack of access to mental health resources, and social isolation. Support initiatives aimed at reducing poverty, improving access to healthcare and education, and promoting social inclusion. As MLK noted, "We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now." And remember folks, in this turbulent sea of democracy, let’s not forget to share the milk for our morning coffee! ☕️🚢 Data sources in comments below. For part 2 of 2 please see: https://lnkd.in/g7W4hsgg. Article in The Atlantic: https://lnkd.in/gXGXt94W #America #Civility #Democracy

It's #PrideMonth 🌈, and while many are gearing up to enjoy the lively and vibrant activities that NYC is famous for hosting during this celebratory period, I want to shine a light on a less hopeful aspect. During a pivotal moment in my career, I had the privilege to work with a group of homeless individuals that are not discussed enough: "Runaway youth". I have never been fond of that label; I believe terms like "freedom seekers" or "new beginnings youth" better reflect their bravery. Among these youths, a significant portion belongs to the LGBTIQ+ community. There are numerous reasons why they find themselves homeless, too many to cover in this post. What's certain is that their unique situation makes them more susceptible to sexual exploitation, emotional manipulation, and unimaginable physical harm. #LGBTIQ+ youth are disproportionately represented in the homeless community, with estimates indicating that they form a notable percentage of homeless youths. Raising awareness about the distinct challenges faced by homeless LGBTIQ+ youth and advocating for policies and programs that cater to their needs and safeguard their rights are crucial. If you are considering celebrating or offering support as an ally, please think about donating, volunteering, mentoring, or assisting one of the local organizations doing commendable work: The Trevor Project, The Door - A Center of Alternatives Live Out Loud It's time for the core four of homeless youth services (DYCD, DHS, DOE, NYPD) to step up, invest more in public awareness, and implement essential safety programs that strive for a more dignified and supportive environment for our future society. NYC Department of Education NYC Department of Youth & Community Development NYC Department of Homeless Services New York City Police Department

People with disabilities and folks living in rural areas are underserved in many ways, including a lack of support in preventing and responding to sexual violence. That's why these groups are centered in goal 3 of our new #StrategicPlan! Dig into the details of this goal and our other two for 2024-2026 at https://loom.ly/_40_Bd0. #supportsurvivors #purpose #nonprofit #forward #disabilityjustice

Stories like the one linked below make me proud (and privileged) to be a Board Director of the fabulous Twenty10 NSW. To find out what they do and what services they offer, check out their website, here: https://twenty10.org.au/ ***** From the article: Jain Moralee, the CEO of youth LGBTQIA+ support organisation Twenty10, said a negative coming out experience could have significant repercussions. She said while everyone's journey was unique, a negative experience could lead to a young person withdrawing from important networks like school, family and friends. It could also lead to social isolation and poor mental health. "When a young person does experience, particularly family rejection, it can lead to instances of homelessness or insecure housing," Ms Moralee said. "If they don't feel safe in their school environment, it can have an impact on their educational journey and opportunities. "And if they don't feel safe and affirmed in their friend environment, they're not getting that really important nourishing social support that comes from connecting with friends." On the flip-side, Ms Moralee said a positive coming out experience could be incredibly affirming for young people. "It can make them feel safe and seen and understood," she said. "Like they've got someone who they can share this really personal and private information with that is potentially so life changing for them." Ms Moralee said it could also help build a young person's confidence, identity and place in their community. The flow-on effects could include things like staying in school, feeling confident and safe in their family unit, and staying connected to friends. "It can make such a big difference to a young person to have a positive coming out experience," she said. ***** To make a tax-deductible donation to support the work of Twenty10, go here: https://lnkd.in/g2sQUME9 ABC article: https://lnkd.in/gCtxyC6n

"You're a good person, so what's getting in the way of you making change?" Sarah Jane O'Neill gave a terrific session on what it's like fundraising for 'unpopular causes'. She has just done a blazing MA project on WHY high net worth (HNW) individuals don't give to domestic abuse charities, and has identified 4 barriers. 💡 It took me 3 whole seconds to recognise that these barriers also exist initial consulting sessions with CEOs about their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goals: 1. SCARCITY - lack of visibility, or not knowing about the cause, means it can be hard to care. HNW individuals respond to social capital so, when Elizabeth Taylor and Lady Diana went public with their support of AIDS charities, this helped others to give. ➡ HOW IT RELATES TO DEI: When convincing leaders of the importance of establishing proper DEI goals, we have to make visible what they haven't seen yet. 2. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY - causes like domestic abuse force you to look at the messiness of the human experience, and it can be difficult to make connections with your own position, and how you can help. ➡ HOW IT RELATES TO DEI: DEI can feel overwhelming, so it can be scary to begin a change process. This is why we talk about 'small, reasonable adjustments' to start with, which everyone can take ownership of. 3. TOOLS OF PATRIARCHAL CONTROL - I loved this point. Fundraisers have to provide SO MUCH DATA to 'prove' the changes they can make, because funders want to see numbers go up. But recovery - and humanity - is not linear, so the cause doesn't always fit into neat boxes of improvement. ➡ HOW IT RELATES TO DEI: Identities which have been systemically disempowered - women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities - have a lifelong experience which doesn't 'end'. Your DEI goals will not end racism, and you putting in equitable recruiting policies does not absolve you of continuing the commitment to your marginalised staff. Once your work starts, it will not end - there's a lot to undo, and we're delighted to have you on board. 4. OTHERING - difficulties happen to OTHER people who don't look like me. But when you can relate the cause to someone like you, or someone you care about, they become more human. ➡ HOW IT RELATES TO DEI: Showing the beneficiary in their full humanity, disrupting the stereotype and aligning their lives with your own, can create an empathy point and make it easier to make the changes that are needed. My experience with psychodynamic consulting at the Tavistock has shown how powerful these unconscious barriers can be, and it is vital to hold space for them with leaders who need to make change. To gently address what is stopping them from making changes that improve things for others, can help them take control of their own barriers, and take them down to let others in, and thrive. What barriers have you encountered with people who aren't ready to make change? #diversityequityandinclusion #fundraising #empathy #dei #edi

The Power of Vision and Community Engagement 🌟 Almost a decade of Youth Empowerment! Reflecting on the journey, I stumbled upon a media clip from the early days. Building a nonprofit through lived experience is a force like no other. It's a personal calling, going beyond mere goals - it's about creating meaningful change. A clear vision, coupled with empathy and understanding, can ignite a community's passion for a cause. It's not about sympathy; it's about empathy. It's about listening and amplifying voices, not just talking at people. #grassrootsmovement #livedexperience #leadership #restorativepractices #traumainformed

Meet Youth Projects (📍- Australia 🇦🇺) Youth Projects is a Kindness in Community Fund grantee and organization dedicated to empowering young individuals aged 15-24, particularly those facing life’s toughest challenges. Their mission is deeply rooted in supporting the most vulnerable, with an overarching goal of offering opportunities that foster personal growth and participation in society. They provide comprehensive support services, including health, outreach, education, and employment assistance, striving to create inclusive spaces where young people can access essential resources, gain new skills, and receive support to navigate complex life circumstances. Integral to their mission is a commitment to breaking the cycle of disadvantage. They support young people from diverse backgrounds, including those from CALD communities, individuals with disabilities, LGBTIQA+ youth, and those experiencing social isolation and disadvantage. Their impact within the community is significant; by advocating for and directly addressing the needs of young people, they not only contribute to their immediate wellbeing but also create long-term positive change in their lives. “Thanks to the generosity of the Kindness in Community Fund, we can now implement a new initiative focused on mental health and social inclusion that will benefit young people who access our services. We believe that this will lead to an increase in engagement and positive outcomes among our participants.” Learn more about their work supported by the Kindness in Community Fund and how you can get involved: https://lnkd.in/edmX6pjg Cotton On Group + Cotton On Foundation 💛💜