Peace Garden News

Four schools in the Grand Forks area—Carrington, Emerado, Manvel, and Thompson—are marking the success of the Sources of Strength program, a peer-led initiative aimed at enhancing mental well-being and suicide prevention among students. This achievement is made possible by funding from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation through their Shut Out the Stigma initiative.

In 2024, these schools implemented the Sources of Strength curriculum using a train-the-trainer model that adapts to each school's unique needs. Carrington Public School trained eight adults and 27 students, engaging roughly 250 youth in various activities such as a mental health fair and an Out of the Darkness suicide prevention walk. "We’re seeing students better understand the support systems around them," said Molly Rzaszutak, Carrington High School's Sources of Strength advisor.

Emerado Elementary involved two staff members and nine peer leaders in its program for over 100 students. The school conducted projects like a generosity campaign that raised $800 for an animal rescue. "Having Sources of Strength curriculum has made it easier and more fun to break down stigma," noted Madisynn Noeldner, Emerado Public School counselor.

Manvel Public School focused on training approximately 20 teachers to reach about 100 kindergarten through fifth-grade students with an emphasis on suicide prevention. "It’s important to normalize conversations around mental health," said Allison Gottwalt, Manvel school counselor.

Thompson Public School engaged 26 students in campaigns focusing on gratitude, trust, and generosity. "It’s been powerful to see the students use Sources of Strength to take ownership of the school’s culture," stated Joe Kulas, school counselor.

The BCBSND Caring Foundation remains committed to expanding behavioral and mental health access across North Dakota by providing resources and tools for schools to help youth navigate life's challenges effectively.