Youth Empowerment Program

Roots, Identity, Strength, Empowerment (RISE)

We are excited to launch Roots, Identity, Strength, Empowerment (RISE) at Amador Valley High School, Castro Valley High School, and Irvington High School.

RISE is a youth-centered program designed to help youths learn more about their identity, culture, and relationships through engaging activities, thoughtful discussions, and meaningful connections.

Program Dates:

  • Amador Valley High School:

    • Thursdays during Access Period: 12:46 – 1:41 PM

    • March 26, 2026 – May 14th, 2026

  • Castro Valley High School:

    • Tuesdays during 1st hour of 3rd period: 11:19am-12:19pm

    • March 17 , 2026 – May 5, 2026

  • Irvington High School:

    • Fridays, 10:05:10:55 AM

    • April 10, 2026 – May 22, 2026

Please contact your school counselor if you are interested.

Healing and Empowerment Through Art (HEART)

Here is what past participants have said about the HEART program!

The Healing & Empowerment through ART (HEART) program is an ongoing youth empowerment program that we are launching in Alameda County high schools. Art can be a very powerful tool that allows one to better understand and process certain experiences and emotions that may be difficult to put into words. The HEART program is a unique opportunity for youth to have fun creating art while gaining a better understanding of their own mental health and wellness, cultural background, and advocacy.

In these group sessions, students will:

  • Have discussions and activities to express their stress and emotional wellness through doing simple artwork

  • Engage actively and reflect on:

    • Stress and how to overcome negative emotions

    • Self-care

    • Relationships/communication

    • Mental health stigma

    • Emotional suppression

    • Cultural identity and background

We have worked with the following schools to launch the program:

  • Amador Valley High School

  • Canyon Middle School

  • Castro Valley High School

  • Foothill High School

  • Harvest Park Middle School

  • Irvington High School

  • Thomas S. Hart Middle School

Please contact us if you would like this program to be implemented at your school.

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Counseling Program