Over the last month, our team has gotten into the flow of things including  showing up fully and continuing our journey of collaboration. We continue to work toward our goal of communal wellness, fostering deep relationships, promoting well-being and revitalization. In all our design spaces, we’ve created spaces that we hope nourishes the mind, body and soul. We understand that, like many others, we are all carrying a significant load and are navigating through. The dedication and passion that each participant brings, even amidst all the things outside of these meetings, is heartfelt. We have continuously seen participants embrace opportunities to be fully present and their authentic selves. Understanding that discomfort is at the root of all growth and learning, we’ve named behaviors and practices we believe reflect our goals. This work can be emotionally taxing. In our meetings, we begin with mindfulness practice, take intentional pauses throughout and end with self-reflections by taking a moment to be still and enjoy the power of each  pause. Thank you to our brilliant advisors.

“The collaboration between The Therapy Fund Foundation and AHSHAY embodies a commitment to putting youth at the forefront. They are the trailblazers and the reason we support organizations like AHSHAY who continually look for ways to build and provide projects with intentional effort to tune into what is necessary for our communities to thrive. 

Janell (AHSHAY’s Project Manager) and Jess (Therapy Fund’s Director of Community Engagement) envisioned a collaboration that not only promotes community sustainability but also eliminates further harm by providing access to therapy and a supportive community environment. 

AHSHAY and The Therapy Fund Foundation share a common goal of challenging stigmas and creating a life beyond racial trauma, economic hardship, and systemic oppression. Through education, advocacy, and community collaboration, both organizations aim to empower our communities and change outcomes through collective effort. 

Together, we serve as conveners, uniting community members to tackle challenges in building authentic and unique lives. Our partnership stands as a testament to shared vision and dedication to building a supportive village that is transcendent and meaningful. 

We rely on the support of organizations and people who believe in the work we do. Please consider a donation.”

 – Jess Howard, Therapy Fund’s Director of Community Engagement.

The youth team’s recent discussions include what self-care and balance looks like, and how their overall well being could affect them as a leader. They have begun to create group agreements and discuss how they want to show up in the youth team design space. Youth are enhancing their leadership abilities through facilitating ice breakers, engaging in journaling, and reflecting on their strengths and interests by setting future goals.

Despite the relaxed atmosphere at the youth team meeting, youth are actively engaging in dialogue. Each meeting is co-facilitated by a team of incredible facilitators. AHSHAY provides wellness kits at the meetings that promote relaxation and include stress-relieving items such as affirmation cards, fidgets, blankets, yoga mats and pillows. We ensure there is a balanced presence of adults in the youth team meetings. There are check-ins with the youth between each meeting and updates posted through Slack, a messaging platform.

We prioritize wellness as an organizational value. During our design sessions, we promote mindfulness to stay grounded. We welcome you to experience one of our  3-minute breathing exercises for yourself!

1. Find a comfortable seated position with your feet planted on the ground and your hands resting gently on your lap.
2. Close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose, feeling your lungs fill with air. Hold it for a moment.
3. Slowly exhale through your mouth, releasing any tension or stress with your breath.
4. Repeat this deep breathing pattern for 3 minutes, focusing solely on the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. Let go of any thoughts or distractions that may arise.
5. After 3 minutes, gently open your eyes and take a moment to notice how you feel. Check in with your body and mind, and carry this sense of calmness present with you and throughout your day.

This breathing practice is versatile and can be practiced in between meetings, while on the go, or whenever you need to reset. We invite you to use this practice as a tool to center and ground yourself in any moment of your day.

Creative Justice presents Black August Health & Wellness. Food, vendors, workshops and more! August 17, 2024 2:00-5:00PM, Washington Hall 153 14th Ave, Seattle WA, 98122

Rainier Beach Action Coalition (RBAC) is hosting The Back 2 School Bash signature event aimed at equipping youth for the upcoming school year. At this event, we’ll be giving out backpacks filled with school supplies, offering exciting entertainment, serving delicious food, and providing vital resources for the neighborhood. Click here to learn more.