One way our Communities for Youth network is working to improve youth mental health and
connectedness at Wood River High School (WRHS) is through the Sources of Strength program.
Benson Blair, WRHS Social Worker, applied for and received a grant at the end of last year to
administer the program here locally. Sources of Strength is a best practice, upstream prevention program that uses the power of peer social networks to create a healthy culture within the school.
“Ultimately, it’s a suicide prevention program, but it goes way beyond just identifying risk factors. It strengthens multiple sources of support for young people, increasing their resilience, so they can better cope with the hard things;” said Blair.
The program utilizes adult advisors, teachers and trusted community members, which have
been identified locally and are currently in the process of training. In late October, the students will be pulled in and begin learning how to use their strengths to improve their and their peer’s mental well-being. About 60 students from all different demographics will be selected by their peers and by teachers at the school. Parents will need to consent to allow their children to participate in the program.
Go here for more information on the Sources of Strength program or contact Benson Blair at
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