Always There Outreach
It’s important that teens have a place to go where they can focus on their mental well-being and future.
Always There is a program designed for at-risk youth in Colorado, aimed at providing them with the support and tools they need to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. The program is open to young people between the ages of 8-17 years old and consist of workshops that include mentors, counselors\therapists, and fitness activities.
Unpacking the Challenges: Exploring the Top Issues Colorado Teens are Confronting Today"
Colorado teens face a multitude of challenges on a daily basis. From school-work to social pressures. Unfortunately, some of the biggest challenges they face can have a lasting impact and sometime result in devastating consequences.
Mental health, substance abuse, bullying and harassment, diversity and inclusion, and gun violence are just a few of the issues that impact their daily lives.
Mental health is a major issue among Colorado teens.
- A report from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment found that the suicide rate among Colorado youth ages 10-17 increased by 58% between 2016 and 2019.
- According to the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey, 22.5% of Colorado high school students reported feeling sad or hopeless for two or more weeks in a row in the past 12 months, and 19.4% reported seriously considering suicide.
Substance abuse is another major issue facing Colorado teens.
- A report from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment found that the rate of drug-related hospitalizations among Colorado youth ages 15-24 increased by 71% between 2001 and 2017.
- The same report found that the rate of opioid-related hospitalizations among Colorado youth ages 15-24 increased by 267% between 2001 and 2017.
Bullying and harassment are unfortunately common experiences for many Colorado teens that can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
- According to the 2019 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey, 21.4% of Colorado high school students reported being bullied on school property in the past 12 months.
- The same survey found that 15.5% of Colorado high school students reported being electronically bullied in the past 12 months.
Inclusion-Colorado is a diverse state, but unfortunately, not all teens feel included or accepted.
- A report by the Colorado Department of Education found that during the 2019-2020 school year, there were 122 incidents of hate or bias reported in Colorado schools.
- The same report found that incidents of hate or bias were most commonly directed at students based on their race or ethnicity, followed by their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Gun violence is a major issue facing teens in Colorado and across the country. School shootings and other acts of violence can have lasting impacts on mental health and can create a sense of fear and anxiety.
- A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that the rate of firearm deaths among Colorado residents ages 15-19 was 11.8 per 100,000 in 2019, higher than the national rate of 9.9 per 100,000 for the same age group.
- The same report found that the rate of firearm homicides among Colorado residents ages 15-19 was 3.0 per 100,000 in 2019, higher than the national rate of 2.7 per 100,000 for the same age group.
Always There Outreach - How It Works
At the core of the program are workshops for participants to help them identify the components that they are a fit for.
The program is divided into three components, each with a specific focus:
Each component of the program will be tailored to meet the specific needs of participants, and participants will have the option to participate in one or more components of the program. The program will be based out of the A1 Boxing fitness a 2000 sf facility that can accommodate fitness activities and classroom settings. Other accessible locations throughout Colorado will be utilized for therapy sessions.
- The mentoring component of Always There will pair each participant with a mentor who will provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Mentors will be carefully screened and trained to ensure they are equipped to build positive relationships with young people. Mentors will offer one-on-one support and participate in group activities with participants.
2. The counseling/therapy component of Always There will provide participants with access to evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or trauma-focused therapy, based on their individual needs. Therapists will work with participants individually or in groups to help them develop healthy coping strategies, manage symptoms of mental health issues, and build resilience.
3. The fitness component of Always There will offer participants opportunities to engage in physical activities, such as boxing, basketball, yoga, or dance. These activities will promote physical health, mental well-being, and provide a healthy outlet for stress and anxiety. Participants will have the opportunity to build confidence, self-esteem, and discipline through these activities.
Outcome
How We Measure the Results
A pre- and post-program assessment will be conducted on each participant Several factors will be used to measure the effectiveness of the program such as:
- Improved mental health: Reduction in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. Feedback from therapists and mentors can also be collected to assess changes in participants’ behavior and attitudes.
- Improved physical health: Regular fitness assessments can be conducted to monitor physical health improvements, such as improvements in strength, flexibility, and endurance. Feedback from fitness instructors can also be collected to assess changes in participants’ physical fitness and confidence.
- Increased sense of community and support: Participants can be surveyed to assess whether they feel more connected to their peers and mentors after participating in the program. Feedback from mentors and therapists can also be collected to assess changes in participants’ behavior and attitudes towards others.
Upon completion of the program each participant will be rewarded a certificate of achievement.