Prison visits are making America safer. Here’s how. Stand Together 2024-10-23 | Prison visits are making America safer. Here’s how.
This upskilling program has no upfront cost. What’s the catch? Stand Together 2024-10-09 | Graduates of this upskilling program only start paying for it once they’re earning a family-sustaining wage — and so far, they’ve trained over 11,000 Americans into better careers.
Traditional hiring is broken. Here’s what it could look like. Stand Together 2024-10-04 | Traditional talent sourcing is holding back millions. Here’s a new hiring approach that could reinvigorate the American Dream.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—The American Dream has long been a symbol of opportunity, but for many, it feels increasingly out of reach — especially for those without a college degree. Today, over 50% of jobs require a college degree, but less than 40% of Americans have one, creating a talent mismatch that leaves millions of workers stuck in low-wage jobs and employers struggling to fill high-demand positions.Merit America is tackling this critical issue head-on. This innovative nonprofit has created a fast-track training program that upskills workers without college degrees, preparing them for lucrative tech careers in just months. By partnering with major companies like Amazon and IBM, Merit America is building a new talent pipeline that challenges the outdated reliance on college degrees as a hiring prerequisite.The impact is already significant: over 11,000 workers trained and $1 billion in wage-gains generated. But the potential is even greater. As more employers embrace this skills-based hiring model, it could reopen pathways to opportunity for millions of Americans while solving critical talent shortages. Merit America's approach isn't just changing individual lives; it's reimagining workforce development and revitalizing the American Dream for a new generation.—Watch more videos about the changemakers transforming the future of work across America in our playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OLBhyfiwMh3AOlfdniv4eQYAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
She conquered a decade of addiction. Here’s how. Stand Together 2024-09-25 | By age 22, Melissa had been arrested 5 times, caught in a vicious cycle of heroin use and crime. Now, she’s several years sober and uplifting other Americans all around the country to find their paths to lasting recovery.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—America isn’t just dealing with a substance use problem, we’re facing an epidemic rooted in social isolation. That’s why The Phoenix model leverages the transformational power of connection and human resilience to build a sober movement.Melissa De Stefano's journey embodies The Phoenix's transformative approach. Facing abuse and emotional neglect as a child, Melissa began drinking at age 12, and within a few years, she was using heroin. Her path to recovery eventually led her to The Phoenix. Today, Melissa serves as a virtual fitness instructor with The Phoenix, using her experience to inspire and guide others on their recovery journeys.The Phoenix operates on the principle of bottom-up empowerment, recognizing that those closest to the issue of addiction are best equipped to solve it. This approach harnesses the power of lived experience, allowing individuals like Melissa to become leaders and mentors in the recovery community. By empowering those who have walked the path of addiction and recovery, The Phoenix creates a self-sustaining cycle of support, understanding, and growth that resonates deeply with those seeking to overcome substance use disorders.—Watch more videos about the people working to heal American families and children in our Strong & Safe Communities playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKjm0KOMcnZ2BgSE1u0OY3HAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
Filling 9.5 million open jobs — in 72 hours?! Stand Together 2024-09-23 | There’s 9.5 million open jobs in the U.S. — so why are motivated and capable potential employees still getting turned away?
Why they can’t “just go get a job” Stand Together 2024-09-20 | “A lot of us drive around and see somebody living on the streets and say: Why won’t they just go get a job?” She’s spent her career trying to answer this question, and here’s what she’s found:
This unconventional staffing agency guarantees employment within 72 hours Stand Together 2024-09-18 | The individuals in our communities who most need stable employment—people facing homelessness, those with a history with the justice system—are routinely screened out of jobs. This nonprofit staffing agency screens them IN, and so far they’ve helped over 25,000 people find stable employment in under 72 hours.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—In our society, a significant number of individuals face formidable challenges in securing employment. This demographic often includes those experiencing homelessness, veterans, and people with past involvement in the justice system. These barriers—such as a lack of reliable transportation to and from a worksite, not having a bank account or home address, and the absence of a network to find opportunities—can perpetuate a cycle of poverty, making it nearly impossible for affected individuals to find stable, gainful employment.On top of these hurdles, many traditional staffing agencies screen out these individuals due to their backgrounds, further widening the unemployment gap. But First Step Staffing is different. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the nonprofit agency offers a transformative solution by focusing on this often-overlooked workforce. Unlike conventional staffing agencies, First Step actively seeks out those who are typically turned away. They ensure these individuals are placed in suitable jobs within 72 hours, providing a vital opportunity to break free from the cycle of unemployment and poverty.With over 25,000 jobs filled and a retention rate of 70% after 30 days, First Step demonstrates the untapped potential of this workforce. By offering immediate employment and supporting long-term success through initiatives such as housing and transport support, First Step Staffing not only unlocks the potential of individuals but also contributes significantly to the local economy, proving that with the right support, everyone has the potential to succeed.—Watch more videos about the changemakers transforming the future of work across America in our playlist ►youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OLBhyfiwMh3AOlfdniv4eQYAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
This isn’t working for people in recovery. Stand Together 2024-09-09 | “At the national level, we have overdose reversal drugs to keep people from dying. Then we have acute care programs that keep people sober for just 30 days, but have really poor outcomes.” This mentor wants America to know that there are better options to keep people in lasting recovery:
ADDICTION RECOVERY Hits Record High Here Stand Together 2024-09-06 | “If that was the choice somebody made, what were their options?” This program offers a profoundly different perspective for thinking about those suffering with addiction:
3 addiction solves that actually work Stand Together 2024-09-04 | With relapse rates as high as 60% following traditional recovery programs, it might seem like lasting recovery isn’t really possible for those struggling with addiction. But these leaders are taking a different approach that focuses on community and identity — and it’s transforming treatment for those struggling.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—The addiction crisis in America has reached alarming levels, with over 112,000 lives lost to drug overdoses in 2023 alone. This epidemic is not merely a personal struggle; it is a complex health issue intertwined with trauma and systemic failures. Traditional recovery methods often prove inadequate, with relapse rates as high as 60% following conventional programs.Emerging solutions are redefining the most ingrained ideas about how we manage addiction in our communities. Christina Dent of End It For Good advocates for understanding addiction as a health crisis rather than a moral failing—a common misconception among many individuals who’ve not witnessed addiction—emphasizing the need for compassionate support over criminalization. Programs like Thistle Farms are making strides by providing women survivors of addiction and trafficking with job training, safe housing, and a nurturing community. Remarkably, 75% of graduates maintain their sobriety five years post-program. Another impactful initiative, The Phoenix, leverages the transformative power of community and fitness to foster identity and connection among those in recovery. This community-focused model has achieved a significant reduction in relapse rates, dropping to just 17% after three months in the program.These pioneering efforts highlight the importance of dignity, community, and personal growth in overcoming addiction. As the nation grapples with this crisis, these solutions offer a glimmer of hope and a pathway to lasting recovery, challenging conventional approaches and inspiring meaningful change.—Watch more videos about the people working to heal America in our Strong and Safe Communities playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKjm0KOMcnZ2BgSE1u0OY3HAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
These students leave high school ready to run their own business Stand Together 2024-08-26 | At most schools, students graduate with test scores — but at this school, students graduate with the demonstrated skills and knowledge to run their own business. #selfdirectedlearning #education
Inside the school run by students Stand Together 2024-08-23 | This school is run by students, not teachers — and it works.
The flawed history of testing — and how we move beyond it Stand Together 2024-08-21 | Standardized testing is a 150-year practice under growing scrutiny. But how do we move away from it? Stand Together Investigates took a deep dive into testing, and the pioneering schools that have ditched it in favor of learning.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—Standardized testing has been a cornerstone of the American education system for over 150 years, but is it effective? Many argue no. Originally implemented during the Industrial Revolution at the same time as mandatory schooling, designed to train a compliant workforce, standardized tests gained prominence with policies like No Child Left Behind, which tied school funding to test performance.Critics argue that standardized tests fail to measure valuable qualities such as empathy, passion, and curiosity. They also point out that the high-stakes nature of these tests can lead to increased anxiety among students, potentially hindering their performance. And perhaps most crucially, the all-around pressure to improve test scores has resulted in some schools "teaching to the test" rather than focusing on comprehensive, meaningful learning.So the question is, what would we do instead? Alternative approaches to assessing student progress are emerging. Some schools are adopting personalized learning models that emphasize student-led projects, growth transcripts, and demonstrations of knowledge aligned with individual interests. These methods aim to provide a more holistic view of student capabilities and better prepare them for real-world challenges.While standardized tests still play a role in many school systems due to state mandates, and can provide some valuable information for a moment in time, there's a growing movement to explore more diverse and comprehensive ways of measuring student learning. The debate continues on how to balance accountability with fostering creativity, critical thinking, and individual growth in education.—Watch more videos about educational approaches defying the norm in Stand Together’s Education Revolution playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OJQ1EMtrXMPdkVZYOVsmlqLAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
The shocking truth about “conflict entrepreneurs” Stand Together 2024-08-12 | No, you’re not imagining it: New research identifies the rapid rise of “conflict entrepreneurs,” people who intentionally divide Americans for their own benefit:
What we get wrong about the political “other side” Stand Together 2024-08-09 | “Every week we survey 1000 Americans on their political views. What we found might surprise you”:
New study pinpoints key factor fueling American polarization Stand Together 2024-08-07 | Traditional political polling works too slowly for us to understand the impact of current events on public opinion. That’s why Polarization Research Lab surveys 1000 Americans weekly to create a real-time picture of political polarization — and their findings reveal one major factor that’s driving us apart.To learn more about the tool mentioned in the video that lets you see what your representative is saying and doing, visit americaspoliticalpulse.com For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—Polarization in America has reached a critical moment. But why? Founded on more than a decade of research by top scholars in the field at Dartmouth College, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania, the Polarization Research Lab (PRL) is conducting groundbreaking research that reveals how Americans are modeling their political behavior based on what they hear from elected officials and political elites. It is this elite rhetoric that is driving a misinterpretation of the ‘other side’ — and in turn, polarizing the nation.Through extensive analysis of data, including surveying 1000 Americans per week and researching politicians' communications, PRL has identified a troubling trend: the toxic rhetoric of political elites is making us feel more divided, and this division often stands to benefit those elites. This negativity hampers constructive dialogue and democratic decision-making.The importance of healthy dialogue is vital to American democracy. That’s why PRL created a tool that enables voters to track their representatives' actions and statements accurately. Ultimately, PRL calls for a more constructive political culture, where disagreement is robust rather than toxic — and their work is crucial in fostering a more constructive political environment.—Watch more videos about the people fighting to bridge America's divides and promote free speech, in our Free Speech playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKmZH5xG5LTNuGciH0Vst3S And visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
These 3 words are ruining the American economy Stand Together 2024-07-29 | “These three simple words are ruining the economy”:
Employers are blinded by degree bias. But that could change. Stand Together 2024-07-26 | Employers are missing out on a whole workforce of skilled, resilient, resourceful people — just because they don’t have a bachelor’s degree. Now there’s a way to identify those workers, and it could reshape the workforce as we know it:
America’s bachelor’s degree obsession is killing the economy. Here’s why. Stand Together 2024-07-24 | America’s bachelor degree obsession is killing the economy and holding back millions of talented workers. Now there’s a bold campaign to ditch degree requirements, and it could unleash a whole new skilled workforce.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc-Americans today are caught in a broken labor market, where millions of open jobs are left unfilled due to a gap between what colleges are teaching and what employers need, and in turn, millions of people with bachelor’s degrees aren’t finding the jobs they’d set out to achieve when they embarked on their studies. But even more starkly, millions of skilled workers without 4-year degrees are being screened out by employers who perpetuate outdated degree requirements when hiring.Economist and former White House advisor Byron Auguste says that this “paper ceiling” is causing companies to miss out on an enormous pool of untapped talent, and restricting economic mobility for millions of skilled Americans. But now that paper ceiling is being torn apart. In an effort to rewire the U.S. labor market, Byron's organization Opportunity@Work is leading a movement of employers to hire based on skills, rather than degrees.Their solution is a data-driven platform that helps companies identify available talent pools with the required skills, rather than just filtering by degrees. Already more than 65 major employers have joined their "Tear the Paper Ceiling" campaign, opening up nearly 30,000 roles in the first year by dropping degree requirements. This skills-based approach recognizes the 70 million "STARs" in America: workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes like on-the-job training.By enabling 1 million STARs to attain better career paths over the next decade, Opportunity@Work's campaign could help these workers earn an estimated $20 billion more annually. Their innovative model promotes economic mobility and solves the labor shortage by connecting companies to a previously overlooked talent pool. This focus on skills over pedigree could create a win-win for workers and employers — and stands to totally reshape the workforce as we know it. -Watch more videos about the changemakers transforming the future of work across America in our playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OLBhyfiwMh3AOlfdniv4eQYAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
At-risk youth are sailing to self-discovery at this one-of-a-kind school Stand Together 2024-07-17 | SailFuture, a one-of-a-kind private academy, provides a safe harbor for at-risk youth to find their bearings and set a positive course.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc--SailFuture Academy serves students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with an average household income of $22,000 for a family of four. These students often face significant barriers and challenges, including disengagement from traditional education, truancy, and a lack of belief in the value of formal schooling. Many have experienced expulsions or have been habitually truant, feeling disconnected from the educational system.SailFuture’s mission is to provide a completely free private education to these at-risk youth, offering a unique and engaging learning environment that caters to their interests and needs. By incorporating hands-on activities like sailing, boat-building, and entrepreneurship classes, SailFuture aims to reignite their passion for learning and help them discover their potential.Through this innovative approach, SailFuture has had a profound impact on the lives of its students. Many who were once disengaged and struggling have found renewed motivation and purpose. They have developed valuable life skills, gained confidence, and even pursued entrepreneurial ventures. The academy's focus on self-actualization empowers students to chart their own paths, whether it leads to college, vocational training, or starting their own businesses — because education is not, and cannot be, one-size-fits-all.--Watch more videos about the changemakers revolutionizing education across America in our playlist ►youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OJQ1EMtrXMPdkVZYOVsmlqLAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
The future of work? Stand Together 2024-07-15 | “The role of the employer has changed over time.” Here’s what the future of work—and in turn, the future of education—looks like for workers.
Getting your dream job just got a whole lot easier (and more affordable) Stand Together 2024-07-12 | Most traditional education paths culminate in a degree. But this skills-to-job marketplace is designed to culminate in your dream job:
Employers are designing new degree programs so students graduate job-ready Stand Together 2024-07-10 | Employers are partnering with community colleges to train a new workforce of skilled talent — and it could close the employment gap.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc--Unmudl is a pioneering marketplace that redefines the connection between education and employment, specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of employers in the rapidly changing job market. Founded by social entrepreneur Parminder Jassal, Unmudl facilitates a direct pipeline between community colleges and businesses, enabling companies to actively participate in developing courses that cater precisely to their current and future talent requirements.This platform addresses the critical disconnect between the classes taught in conventional educational settings and those demanded in the workforce, a gap evidenced by the coexistence of 6.5 million unemployed people in America and 9.5 million open jobs. Utilizing a network of nearly a thousand community colleges, Unmudl offers a flexible, accessible approach to learning, allowing students to select and combine courses à la carte to build the specific skill sets required by partnering employers.This collaboration not only aids individuals like the working learner Scott, who successfully transitioned into a specialized role at Amazon through targeted coursework, but also supports employers in filling critical roles efficiently. By doing so, Unmudl not only proposes to rejuvenate the community college system but also aims to forge a sustainable bridge between education centers and industry, ensuring a more inclusive, accessible and adaptive educational landscape.--Watch more videos about the changemakers transforming the future of work across America in our playlist ►youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OLBhyfiwMh3AOlfdniv4eQYAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
Why silence is so harmful for childhood sexual abuse survivors Stand Together 2024-07-01 | Childhood sexual abuse is considered one of the most taboo topics in our society. But our collective silence on this issue allows abuse to continue, and causes further harm to the 1 in 5 people who have experienced it.
The Zookeeper Principle for better leadership Stand Together 2024-06-28 | “How I interact as a leader fundamentally shifted when I came into the nonprofit sector.” Here’s why.
This powerful new solution helps childhood sexual abuse survivors learn to heal – not just cope Stand Together 2024-06-26 | A lot of the advice given to survivors of childhood sexual abuse focuses on treating symptoms. But this retreat tackles trauma at the root, so that the estimated 1 in 5 Americans who have suffered abuse can find lasting healing and break generational cycles of trauma.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc-Childhood sexual abuse is a profound yet under-acknowledged issue in the United States, affecting an estimated one in every five children before their 18th birthday. This distressing statistic reflects a reality where 20% of Americans* could be dealing with lasting trauma from such abuse, fundamentally altering their lives, and in turn, the lives of those around them. Survivors often grapple with deep shame and diminished self-worth that manifest in their lives in devastating ways, such as addiction, broken relationships, isolation, and violence. Unfortunately, the common answer for those struggling is to address these visible symptoms, rather than the root causes of their trauma.Saprea, a nonprofit organization based in Utah, offers a unique approach to healing for survivors. Saprea's intervention, the Saprea Retreat, is a week-long program tailored specifically for adult women who were sexually abused as children. This retreat creates a healing environment in which peers with shared lived experience come together as a community to face and heal from their pasts: because abuse happens in isolation, but healing happens in community.The retreats are designed not only to confront the trauma directly but also to build a community that envelopes survivors in support. By focusing on creating new, healthier neural pathways through various therapeutic techniques, Saprea empowers participants to reshape their responses to trauma triggers. This deeply effective approach underscores the necessity of addressing trauma within a supportive community, highlighting that healing, much like trauma, happens in the context of relationships. Saprea's model not only aids survivors in immediate recovery but also in building skills and connections that support long-term wellbeing — in turn breaking the cycles of abuse that are so inherent in communities across the country.*Source: CDC cdc.gov/child-abuse-neglect/about/about-child-sexual-abuse.html-Watch more videos about the people working to heal American communities ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKjm0KOMcnZ2BgSE1u0OY3HAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
Legendary activist Opal Lee’s #1 key to success Stand Together 2024-06-14 | This 96-year-old activist kick-started the million-plus person movement that brought Juneteenth to the national stage. Here’s her #1 tip for being a self-starter: #juneteenth
The 1,400 mile journey to get Juneteenth nationally recognized Stand Together 2024-06-12 | Opal Lee was just a child when her family's home was burned down by white rioters on June 19th, 1939. Nearly 80 years later in 2016, she walked 1,400 miles from Fort Worth to D.C. to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. Now aged 96, she continues to inspire change, proving that “freedom is for everyone.”For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc—In 2016, Opal Lee, at the age of 89, embarked on a monumental 1,400-mile walk from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., with a mission to secure Juneteenth as a nationally recognized holiday. Her campaign, marked by her remarkable determination and resilience, gathered 1.6 million signatures to present to Congress. Known affectionately as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," Lee’s efforts have significantly shaped the way Americans commemorate this day, which marks the end of slavery in the United States and reflects the nation's ongoing journey from a painful history towards a hopeful future.Through her annual walks and steadfast leadership, Lee has transformed Juneteenth from a local commemoration into a movement of national significance, promoting unity, equal rights, and community engagement. Her story not only celebrates her tenacity and spirit but also serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on the fabric of a nation. Lee's narrative is a poignant testament to bottom-up, grassroots change — and the idea that “none of us are free until we are all free.”—Watch more videos about the people fighting to bridge America's divides ►youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKmZH5xG5LTNuGciH0Vst3S&feature=sharedAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
The Einstein approach to criminal justice Stand Together 2024-05-27 | This sage piece of advice from #einstein could transform the way we approach #violentcrime in America.
How we actually reduce violent crime in America Stand Together 2024-05-24 | This one approach is drastically reducing violent crime in cities that have implemented it. #criminaljustice
How do we actually reduce violent crime? Here’s what the data says Stand Together 2024-05-22 | The data is in on America’s violent crime problem. Here are the approaches that will actually make America safer.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc–Thomas Abt proposes a transformative approach to reducing violent crime. He advocates for a blend of public health strategies, community involvement, and targeted interventions. Abt is a big proponent of data-informed decision-making, and the data we have shows that violence, akin to a public health crisis, is concentrated among a small segment of the population in specific areas.By understanding the circumstances that repeatedly lead to violence, such as poverty and disinvestment, and understanding where violence is most likely to occur, Abt believes we could drastically reduce violence in America without imposing restrictive or one-size-fits-all approaches on communities.His roadmap includes leveraging data to identify and support high-risk individuals and locations, employing community-based street outreach, cognitive behavioral therapy, and strategic law enforcement collaborations. These interventions comprise a comprehensive, scalable model that respects community trust and fosters long-term prosperity. Abt's vision is clear: By rejecting binary choices and integrating diverse strategies, communities can achieve safety and justice simultaneously.—Watch more videos about individuals changing America for the better in Stand Together’s Believe In People playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKiHH7dES4txo7g_iYh-UjDAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
Where does morality come from? Stand Together 2024-05-15 | Psychologist Kurt Gray explains that while we all share the same moral foundations, different groups perceive harm in different ways, leading to divergent beliefs. #morality
This is what caused the housing crisis Stand Together 2024-05-13 | We can’t build affordable housing because of century-old zoning laws. But here’s what we can do instead. #housingcrisis #housingmarket
Incredible surprise awaits former foster kid at half marathon finish line Stand Together 2024-05-08 | When first-gen college student and former foster kid Abel crossed his half marathon finish line, he had no idea that he was about to receive a whole lot more than a medal. Watch the emotional moment.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc-Abel is a former foster kid and college freshman running a half marathon alongside his long-time mentor, Connor. What Abel doesn’t know is there’s more than just a medal waiting for him at the finish line.From navigating the challenges of foster care from a young age, protecting and guiding his seven younger siblings through years of uncertainty, to becoming the first in his family to attend college—Abel has shown remarkable resilience and determination. His story, intertwined with the profound mentorship provided by Connor, consistent support from National Angels, and the unwavering love of his adoptive parents is a powerful reminder of the impact deep, meaningful relationships can have on our lives.This story is an emotional testament to the incredible impact a community can have when it comes together to celebrate one of its most deserving young people. Watch our video about National Angels to learn more about their incredible work with Abel and his family ► youtu.be/RcHbAgPr6Kw-Watch more videos about the people working to heal American families and children in our Healing Families playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKjm0KOMcnZ2BgSE1u0OY3HAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
The big “resources” myth Stand Together 2024-05-02 | “Children spell “love” ‘T-I-M-E.’” National Angels CEO Susan Ramirez on setting foster families up for long-term success.
This one sentence changed my life forever Stand Together 2024-05-01 | “That was the first time in my life I believed in myself.” National Angels Founder and CEO Susan Ramirez on the power of mentorship. #mentorship #leadership
Why so many foster families burn out — and how to stop it from happening Stand Together 2024-04-29 | With 400,000 children experiencing foster care, the need for stable foster homes has never been more urgent. But 50% of foster homes close within their first year, often due to a lack of support. Through building “radical community,” National Angels is improving that statistic one family at a time.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc-----America’s foster care system is facing a critical challenge, with approximately 400,000 children each year in need of nurturing homes. Despite the growing need, about 50% of new foster families withdraw within their first year, overwhelmed by the lack of support and the significant weight of the care they provide. This crisis not only deprives children of stable temporary homes but also exacerbates the cycle of trauma and instability that many of these children face, with many living in more than 20 homes before the age of 18.Enter National Angels, an organization committed to reversing this trend by bolstering the support network surrounding foster families. Through its innovative approach, National Angels pairs community volunteers with foster families to provide a spectrum of support services, from mentorship and babysitting to group activities, thus addressing the multifaceted challenges foster families and children encounter.By fostering “radical community,” National Angels has shown remarkable success: 75% of supported families continue to foster, providing children with the stability and care needed to thrive. This model not only sustains foster families but also fosters a transformative impact on children's lives, paving the way for a future where every child can reach their full potential. Watch to see how this unfolds for Abel, who at the age of 15 was removed from his family along with his seven siblings, and is now a thriving college student with a loving home.-----Watch more videos about the people working to heal American families and children in our Healing Families playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKjm0KOMcnZ2BgSE1u0OY3HAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
How leaders can make work meaningful for their employees Stand Together 2024-04-26 | Work needs to be meaningful for people to feel invested in it. Here’s how leaders can make that a reality. #work #meaning
Society needs less critics. Here’s why. Stand Together 2024-04-24 | We’re addicted to criticism — but it doesn’t get us far, says former presidential advisor. #empathy #understanding
Win every day with these 2 questions Stand Together 2024-04-22 | Some tasks can wait. Others can’t. Here’s how to know which is which. #timemanagement #multitasking
The 2 Jiu-Jitsu principles that made me a better leader Stand Together 2024-04-19 | “I oversee a team, and these 2 Jiu-Jitsu principles taught me more about leadership than anything else.” #leadership #jiujitsu
Make your ideas spread like wildfire by doing this Stand Together 2024-04-17 | Your ideas will spread like wildfire on social media — if you do this. #growthhacking #ideas
AI: Good news for teachers? Stand Together 2024-04-15 | If we don’t lean into AI in education, we’re leaving a lot of human potential on the table, says the founder of Khan Academy, Sal Khan. #khanacademy #ai #onlinelearning Watch the full video here: youtu.be/uc84N3aFi40
How do we make education truly accessible? Stand Together 2024-04-12 | @khanacademy founder Sal Khan plans to bring quality, accessible education to every student across America – and the world. Here’s how. #khanacademy #onlinelearning Watch the full video: youtu.be/uc84N3aFi40
He’s making quality education a universal reality | Sal Khan Stand Together 2024-04-10 | Khan Academy has radically transformed individualized learning in America, with 120 million users in the last year. Now its trailblazing founder, Sal Khan, is expanding his mission to make quality education accessible to everyone — especially the underserved.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc----Envision an educational future where every student, no matter their location or circumstance, can access top-tier educational resources. This is the vision of Sal Khan, the pioneering force behind Khan Academy. He’s challenging the conventional dichotomy between high academic standards and personalized, mastery-based learning. By leveraging innovative platforms, Sal is debunking the myth that these educational goals are mutually exclusive, offering tools that bring both to classrooms across the world.Khan Academy has already had a remarkable impact on learners across America: students who engage with Khan Academy for just 30 minutes weekly exceed expected learning growth by up to 38%. Building off the platform's widespread success, Khan is on an ongoing mission to extend personalized learning further, especially to students in underserved areas. By applying AI technologies to the education space, with the launch of Khanmigo, his ambition is to democratize access to unparalleled educational opportunities, fostering individualized learning at a scale never before seen. Khan explains how thoughtfully integrating AI into education could revolutionize teacher support, student empowerment, and reshape the educational experience for more than a billion learners globally.----Watch more videos about the changemakers revolutionizing education across America in our playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OJQ1EMtrXMPdkVZYOVsmlqLAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
The human connection crisis, explained Stand Together 2024-04-01 | Clinical therapy shouldn’t be the only solution for mental health care. Dr Trina Clayeux explains what we’re missing from our approach.Watch the full video: youtu.be/jgJSC3s3Z0U
You should know these 5 signs of suffering Stand Together 2024-03-29 | Do you know the 5 signs of emotional suffering? By knowing what to look out for, everybody can be a part of the solution to America’s mental health crisis.Watch the full video here: youtu.be/jgJSC3s3Z0U
More therapists won’t fix the mental health care crisis. Here’s what can. Stand Together 2024-03-27 | For every 1 mental health therapist in the U.S., there are 350 people in need of support — but simply increasing the number of clinical therapists won’t fix the growing crisis. Dr. Trina Clayeux introduces her transformative, community-based approach which could close the gap.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc-----Dr. Trina Clayeux, CEO of Give an Hour, has a transformative idea to address the critical mental health crisis in America. The system we have in place is overwhelmed by demand, but simply adding more therapists isn’t a sufficient solution to support the 1 in 5 Americans who will experience a mental health episode each year.Dr. Clayeux recognizes the limits of clinical care alone to serve the unique needs of individuals seeking mental health support. This led her to launch a revolutionary community-based mental health care approach that has already created a network of more than 4,000 mental health ambassadors—trained individuals capable of recognizing emotional distress and providing crisis support—providing voluntary care to nearly 3 million people.These wellness ambassadors, working directly with people in their communities, demonstrate effectiveness on par with clinical care. Such community-centric models have proven particularly impactful in tightly-knit groups with scarce mental health resources, like the military. Dr. Clayeux is leading a movement towards leveraging community strength and personal connections in mental health care, showcasing a path where everyone—not just clinically trained therapists—is part of the solution.-----Watch more videos about the people working to heal America in our Healing Families playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKjm0KOMcnZ2BgSE1u0OY3HAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
The most effective nonprofits do THIS Stand Together 2024-03-18 | The most effective nonprofits do more than just solve a short-term need; they empower the individual with the knowledge and belief that they can transform their lives themselves.Watch the full video here: youtu.be/2DFwplBA1kE
Should nonprofits be more like the for-profit sector? Stand Together 2024-03-15 | Todd Rose thinks nonprofits have a few things to learn from the for-profit sector — and it could transform the effectiveness of America’s trillion-dollar social sector.Watch the full video here: youtu.be/2DFwplBA1kE
What America’s $1T social sector gets wrong about measuring impact Stand Together 2024-03-13 | America’s social sector has wasted trillions on ineffective philanthropy. Todd Rose and Stand Together Foundation have a different vision for how nonprofits can best support their beneficiaries: Customer First Measurement.For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► youtube.com/standtogethercc------- In a groundbreaking shift from traditional measurements of nonprofit success, Stand Together Foundation introduces Customer First Measurement™, an approach that redefines success in the social sector by centering on the satisfaction and feedback of those it aims to serve. Despite America's vast $22 trillion investment over six decades to combat poverty, addiction, and homelessness, prevailing strategies have largely fallen short. Dr. Todd Rose, a former Harvard professor and advocate for the science of individuality, critiques the nonprofit ecosystem's obsession with output over impact, suggesting a pivot towards genuinely understanding the unique needs of individuals.The United Way of Salt Lake City's 211 service, a referral hub for millions seeking nonprofit aid, serves as a test case, revealing a stark disconnect: 75% of people do not receive the help they're seeking. This insight underscores the necessity for nonprofits to adopt measures that prioritize individual feedback, enabling tailored and effective interventions.Customer First Measurement emerges as a solution, emphasizing the importance of treating those in need not as beneficiaries, but as customers with voices that guide service improvement. With hundreds of nonprofits nationwide beginning to embrace this methodology, there's a burgeoning shift towards a more dignified, respectful, and ultimately successful approach to social service. This initiative not only promises to elevate the standard of care but also to empower individuals and communities, challenging the sector to measure what truly matters: real, positive impact on human lives.-------Watch more videos about bold new solutions for economic progress in Stand Together’s Economic Progress playlist ► youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OIcbjrB5OTe_zi54grPWKiqAnd visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► standtogether.org
