Hi Friend, 

Sophia* is a typical 13-year-old girl who was struggling with the turmoil of adolescence. With lots of strong feelings and trouble communicating clearly, she started becoming defiant towards her mom and teachers, using drugs, and getting into fights with classmates.  

To address these challenges, Sophia began working with a counselor in Brightpoint’s Comprehensive Youth Development (CYDS) program in our Southern region. CYDS provides family counseling and crisis intervention services for children who are at risk of homelessness, foster care, or involvement in the juvenile justice system. 

Through one-on-one counseling sessions and family sessions with her mom and little brother, Sophia started working through her feelings, which seemed to have a life of their own and often led to unwanted arguments with others. 

Sophia’s whirlpool of emotions were so daunting! Together with her counselor, Sophia learned how to identify and better understand her emotions by pausing to take a step back before reacting to a situation. Then, she could take some calming breaths and think through what to do next instead of just reacting. 

Sophia found that this also works during conflict. By stopping to breathe, she could calm down and be more thoughtful about how to respond when she is having an argument with a classmate.  

Her counselor taught her strategies for managing her emotions by practicing mindfulness and journaling. They also did role playing to practice ways to solve problems respectfully and assertively.  

The results were astounding! Sophia learned to let go of her differences with others and stand up for herself without becoming aggressive. Sophia is one of the many CYDS participants we serve each year. 

But why is this important: Teenagers with healthy communication skills are statistically more likely to disrupt the factors that lead to instability. Having the tools to actively listen and communicate personal needs helps teens like Sophia to express themselves without fear.  

With practice, she made huge improvements, which led to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. She gets along better with friends and has become much closer to her mom!  

Sophia is so proud of her progress and grateful for the help she received from her Brightpoint counselor! 

I share this story with you to show how much Brightpoint helps children and youth overcome their daily struggles. Sophia’s story is just one example of how generous support and partnership from people like you improves the lives of children and youth in our communities.  

We simply wouldn’t be able to offer these critical services without your support. You play an important role in making sure we can continue to help children and youth in need.  Thank you so much! 

All the best, 

Kimberly Schulte

Manager of Corporate & Foundation Grants 

*Name is changed for privacy