"Building Bridges" is a student based program that is intended to mobilize youth to take action and stand up / speak out on behalf of themselves and others against bullying and all of the behaviors bullying encompasses.
Research shows that bystanders are in the best position to influence the behaviors of bullies and to change their school climate. Think about it.... how many faculty and staff are in your school? Students are the largest body in any school. When students step up and let the perpetrator know their behavior is not acceptable and support those who are being targeted, it send a powerful message!
As Oprah's recent shows on bullying so clearly point out, students hold the key to creating physically and emotionally safe schools.
"Building Bridges" is based on empowering students through a process in which they tranform themselves and the world they live in. Adults work with youth to provide mentorship, information and support.
All students grades 4-12 are invited to participate.
WHAT DO 'BRIDGE BUILDERS' DO?
Commit to the 'Building Bridges' program for a minimum one year
Attend training sessions to learn observation and intervention skills
Utilize the skills and tactics provided by the 'Building Bridges' program to speak up and intervene when you experience or witness bullying
Meet regularly with other Bridge Builders and school faculty / staff in a cooperative and collaborative effort
Design and implement fun, yet educational, awareness activities in your school
Be positive role models
We provide the training and skills necessary, you "walk the talk".
WHY BE A "BRIDGE BUILDER"?
Use your talents and perspectives to make decisions and plan projects
You'll have an active role in making positive changes in your school and community
Personal development
Express your ideas and implement them
Enhance academic skills with "real world" experience
Learn leadership and citizenship skills
Help create safer, friendlier school where your voice and input helps shape the culture
Transform your school into a community characterized by acceptance, compassion, and respect
Volunteering can be fun
READY TO GET STARTED? HAVE QUESTIONS?
Please complete the form below.
The BAPA is a project of Anchors of Hope, a 501(c)3 registered with the State of Iowa. Private donations are a large part of the funding that allows us to continue to help keep children safe, online and offline. Your contributions are greatly appreciated, and are tax deductible. To donate easily and safely online, please click here.
2009 Financial Supporters
Cox Communications~Iowa West Foundation~Union Pacific Railroad~PFLAG
The Bullying Awareness & Prevention Alliance
is proud to partner with the following trusted organizations...
'Take A Stand. Lend A Hand. Stop Bullying Now!' National Campaign. For more information, visit www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov.
The National Crime Prevention Council helps people keep themselves, their families, and their communities safe from crime. For more information, visit http://www.ncpc.org/topics/bullying
Take advantage of the Cox Communications
“Take Charge!” program.
Manage what your kids see,
AND DON’T SEE,
on TV and the
Internet. For more information, visit www.cox.com/ takecharge/
PACER Center was created by parents of children and youth with disabilities to help other parents and families facing similar challenges. For more information, visit http://www.pacer.org/bullying/index.asp
and to change their school climate. Think about it.... how many faculty and staff are in your school? Students are the largest body in any school. When students step up and let the perpetrator know their behavior is not acceptable and support those who are being targeted, it send a powerful message!
