Funding supports Project H.O.P.E., empowering young people in healthy relationships, character development, and other skills.
Be Strong International has received a $200,000 grant from The Allstate Foundation to support its youth empowerment program, Project H.O.P.E (Healthy Outcomes through Prevention Education).
Offered throughout the school day, Project H.O.P.E. consists of interactive activities, guided group discussions, and prevention education workshops oriented to middle and high school youth, to help them avoid risky behaviors. In the 2020-2021 school year, and in partnership with Broward and Miami-Dade counties’ public-school systems, more than 5,000 middle and high school students participated in its interactive workshops on healthy relationships, character development, financial literacy, and career education.
“We are so thankful to The Allstate Foundation for this generous gift,” said Michelle Shirley, C.E.O. of Be Strong International. “This recognition not only validates the importance of our work with young people and their families, but it also provides vital financial assistance to expand this program in South Florida”.
The Allstate Foundation pursues equity so people and communities can thrive. Since 1952, the Foundation has led national programs, partnered with leading organizations, and offered grants to local non-profits to create innovative, long-term solutions for those in need. To support future leaders, especially those in marginalized communities, The Allstate Foundation has granted over $4 million to more than 60 non-profit organizations to support innovative youth empowerment and relationship-violence prevention programs that advance racial equity.
Laura Freveletti, Senior Program Officer of The Allstate Foundation, said, “In light of the pandemic and economic and social injustice crises, there has never been a better time to increase our investment in solutions that address the ever-growing needs of today’s youth. We’re incredibly proud of our long-standing commitment to empowering youth with the skills to become tomorrow’s leaders and educating them on preventing relationship abuse before it starts.”
