The Relationship Foundation: Healthy Relationships 101

We will implement Healthy Relationships 101 in Alternative Learning Centers (ALCs) in The Bronx, New York. Students, who are typically marginalized and underprivileged, are sent to ALCs when they are suspended at their original school. By bringing our program to ALCs, we will help at-risk students learn how to listen empathically and build resilience so they can return to their original school with the tools to achieve their academic and personal goals.

The Problem

The Healthy Relationships 101 program includes a curriculum and training for teachers with the aim of fostering stable and safe environments for students. Our unique approach to Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) enhances critical thinking, respect, and empathic listening inside the classroom and beyond. Our professional development sessions with school administrators, counselors, and teachers raise awareness of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which inhibit brain development and result in behavioral and academic difficulties. We introduce the Trauma-Informed School approach that has proven to have remarkable results in helping children become more resilient and academically successful, in particular, at-risk youth exposed to childhood trauma, drugs, and bullying.

The Solution

The Relationship Foundation focuses on youth and community development by enhancing critical thinking, respect, and empathic listening skills. Our founder, Michael Jascz, developed an educational program titled “Healthy Relationships 101,” which provides students with communication skills that empower them to express confidence, leadership, and empathy in all of their relationships. The program is based on the work of Clinical Psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, PhD who developed a process called “Nonviolent Communication” (NVC). We give individuals the tools they need to identify and articulate their needs and feelings without blame and judgment. Our program also addresses social issues such as abusive relationships, bullying, and healthy boundaries.

Planned Use Of Funds

A donation will allow us to implement our Healthy Relationships program in more New York City schools. With academic scores declining nationwide, epidemic rates of bullying and childhood suicide, and now active shooter drills becoming commonplace in schools, our program focuses on teaching respectful relationship skills that can be taught directly in the classroom. These tools can help to reach students before they fall through the cracks.