Creating Positive Childhood Experiences with All Together Rising

One Circle programs create safe spaces where youth find connection and sometimes express having endured overwhelming and traumatic experiences.  

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) may have long-lasting detrimental effects on children and youth, impacting physical and behavioral health extending into adulthood and may even shorten lives. However, Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), such as consistent interactions with caring adults, supportive peers, and participation in meaningful activities in culturally responsive environments, have been shown to counter the effects of trauma and promote health and well-being.  

Introducing All Together Rising
All Together Rising is One Circle Foundation’s answer to the call from youth service providers for Circle sessions that directly address some of the familiar adverse conditions affecting many youth. All Together Rising is an innovative collection of supplemental Circle sessions, compatible with any One Circle model (Girls Circle, Unity Circle, or The Council for Boys and Young Men), which has been meticulously developed to address the complexities of eight different adverse childhood experiences:  

• community violence 
• food insecurity 
• homelessness & housing insecurity 
• labor trafficking 
• loss & grief 
• sex trafficking 
• teen depression 
• teen suicide

The full collection of sessions is available in the organization’s tried and true printed hardcopy and also the new digital format at a lower cost for easy access worldwide.

A Community-Driven Approach 
One of the distinguishing features of All Together Rising is its community-driven development. The topics were chosen in response to requests from One Circle Foundation’s community of certified facilitators working with youth. A team of 7 writers and editors at One Circle Foundation took on these important topics, spearheaded by CoFounder Beth Hossfeld, LMFT, and originated by staff member Doreen Thompson. In the editing phase, valuable feedback was provided by certified facilitators, Circle participants, and people with lived experiences in the session themes.  This curriculum stands as a testament to collaborative effort. 

A Free Offering Ahead of Launch 
Months before the final writing and editing of All Together Rising was complete, the One Circle Foundation team chose to finalize and publish one session early and separately as a free offering to youth service providers. The Thinking About Coming Out session was released on National Coming Out Day and it remains on the organization’s website as a free resource. For some LGBTQ+ youth, reservations, fears, and questions may prevent them from exploring their identity. This session aims to support them by providing a safe and supportive Circle experience on their journey of self-discovery. It provides activities and peer support to help youth navigate challenges and build on strengths as they are discerning whether, how, or when to come out.    

The Transformative Power of Circle 
Central to all One Circle Foundation curricula, including the new All Together Rising sessions, is the transformative power of Circle. The traditional process of gathering in a safe and caring circle is the foundational strength of all One Circle Foundation programs. The organization’s approach recognizes the significance of consistent interactions with caring adults and supportive peers. It promotes inclusivity, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe space for youth to share, learn, and grow. All Together Rising is the 27th curriculum released by One Circle Foundation, the same number of years the organization has been in service of its mission.  
 
Join the Movement 
By incorporating All Together Rising supplemental sessions into your programs, you'll offer relevant, timely, science-based support and tools and a protective experience for the youth in Circle. Whether they are actively grappling with one of the challenging topics featured in All Together Rising or seeking to enhance awareness, empathy, and community engagement, this collection serves as a valuable resource for all facilitators of Circle programs. 

For more information, visit onecirclefoundation.org. Email One Circle Foundation at info@onecirclefoundation.org or call 415-419-5119.