Fired Up to Make a Positive Impact

This month, we traveled to Kansas City, MO, to exhibit at the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Conference. The theme was "Fired Up," and let me tell you… the participants, indeed, were. Over 3,000 school counselors, administrators, private practice clinicians, community organizations, and teachers gathered to find resources to help them support the youth in their communities. The energy and enthusiasm were palpable, and the experience motivated us more than ever to make a positive impact. 

One of the most significant needs we heard from attendees who visited our exhibit booth was their need for evidence-based program models.  They were looking for adaptable curricula with easy implementation.  Finding time to facilitate circles was a common theme shared by many counselors, but after having a conversation with OCF Staff, they learned that there’s flexibility to facilitate groups in 40 minutes and throughout the school day.    Hearing counselors share their eagerness to facilitate circles for youth to have a safe place was truly exciting.  

One high school counselor shared that they have a block of time intended for students to receive extra academic help at the end of the day. This counselor has been given permission to facilitate Circles during this time, providing a valuable opportunity to support students' social and emotional needs alongside their academic growth.  

The highlight of our exhibit booth was the projector screen that showed videos of young people in Lakewood, CO, and Raton, New Mexico, sharing their enjoyable experiences with Girls Circle and the Council for Boys and Young Men.

 Raffle Winners 

Left: LeQuieta Greyson took home All Together Rising    Right: Jacqueline Ordonez Montijo took home Expressing My Individuality