How We Work
In Stand Together, a small group of trained students create projects to educate their peers and on occasions, faculty, about these disorders, stigma, social inclusion, and treatment. When given the freedom, Stand Together has seen students develop innovative ways to educate schoolmates because they know what their peers will respond to, which is why the project planning process is student driven. Anti- stigma education research is very clear— short-term interventions are not effective in changing stigmatizing attitudes and behaviors among youth. This is why Stand Together takes place throughout the school year.
What We Do
Stand Together is a student-directed initiative. Our staff meets with school representatives to choose adults advisors to recruit students and provide guidance throughout the year. Students then develop an innovative idea for how to educate peers about mental health and substance use disorders after they’re trained. We’ll give them feedback on their project and offer technical assistance until it’s finished.
Our Approach
Our curricula are based upon anti-stigma educational research and keep students engaged through activities. We’ve created guides that walk students through the project planning process. The guides are structured so that students don’t feel overwhelmed by planning their projects but can come up with something that really fits their school’s needs.
Your School and Stand Together
Stand Together wants to work with as many schools and help as many students as we can. If your school is in Allegheny County, Stand Together provides financial support for the program and sponsors a recognition event at the end of the year. If your school is in another area, we would still love to partner with you!
Contact Lacey Agresta, Community Wellness Manager to find out more.
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