Strong Minds, Safe Conversations

Who this program supports

Strong Minds, Safe Conversations is for high school students in Fargo and across North Dakota—and for the schools, counselors, families, and youth organizations who care about them.

What people are facing

Young people are working to understand their emotions, their relationships, and their place in the world—often while carrying stress they do not yet have words for.

Many students are unsure when or how to ask for help, or worry that struggling means they are weak. It does not.

What the program provides

Practical, age-appropriate conversations about:

• Emotional awareness—understanding and naming what you feel
• Coping with stress in healthy ways
• Healthy relationships
• Asking for help, and knowing when to seek support
• Supporting a friend who is struggling
• Knowing that struggling does not make someone weak

Strong Minds, Safe Conversations is education, not therapy or crisis care. If a student is in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.

Where we serve

Arise Above Foundation is rooted in Fargo, North Dakota, and walks alongside communities across the state. If you are unsure whether we can serve your community, reach out—we will listen and, when possible, help you find the right support.

How to take part

1. Schools, counselors, and youth organizations start a conversation with us about bringing Strong Minds, Safe Conversations to their students.
2. We talk together about your students, your goals, and what would be most helpful.
3. Together, we shape how the program can best serve your students. Families and students looking for support can also reach out through Seek Support.

For professionals and organizations

School counselors, teachers, social workers, and youth-serving organizations can refer a student or family—with their permission—or partner with us to bring the program to a school or youth group.

Refer someone to Strong Minds, Safe Conversations · Partner with us