The holiday season invites us to reflect on gratitude, build stronger connections, and give back to our communities. It’s a special time to gather with loved ones, share stories, and engage in traditions that celebrate unity and compassion. Research shows that intergenerational connections—between grandparents, parents, children, and extended family—not only deepen bonds but also boost mental well-being and resilience for everyone involved.

Building connections across generations allows family members to learn from each other’s experiences. Intergenerational relationships foster empathy, reduce isolation, and give youth valuable insights into family history and cultural heritage (Kaplan, 2018). In a world where isolation and stress are prevalent, these meaningful bonds offer a sense of belonging and continuity.

• Shared Hobbies or Skills: Engage in activities where one generation teaches the other—whether cooking, technology, or crafts. These shared experiences create lasting memories and deepen mutual understanding.

2. Foster Respectful Dialogue

• Practice Active Listening: Show respect by listening attentively and avoiding interruptions.
• Share Family Stories: Focus on stories that highlight family strength and resilience. These create shared history and reinforce connections.
• Keep an Open Mind: Encourage curiosity by asking questions and showing interest in each other’s experiences, bridging generational gaps. Try our A Walk In My Shoes: Family Art Activity to get to know your loved ones more deeply.

3. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude enhances well-being, increasing happiness, reducing depression, and strengthening relationships (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). To foster gratitude this holiday season, consider these activities:

• Gratitude Jar: Create a family gratitude jar, where everyone can jot down things they’re thankful for throughout the month. At the end of the season, take time to read each note aloud and reflect together as a family. You can also download our Gratitude Jar worksheet. 
• Thank You Notes: Encourage family members to write thank you notes to people who’ve made a positive impact in their lives. This simple act strengthens connections.
• Gratitude Circle: During family gatherings, ask everyone to share one thing they’re grateful for. This practice sparks meaningful conversation and reinforces a sense of togetherness.

4. Give Back and Volunteer

Volunteering together during the holiday season encourages compassion and gives younger generations a hands-on understanding of generosity and empathy. According to Psychology Today, volunteering can increase life satisfaction and reduce stress, especially when done as part of a group (Schwartz, 2018).

Consider these ideas for giving back as a family:

• Community Service Projects: Volunteer at local food banks, shelters, or other community centers. Consider using the Deed App to find volunteer opportunities.
• Assemble Care Packages: Create care packages with essentials like food, hygiene products, and notes of encouragement. Assembling packages together can spark conversations about gratitude and giving, making a positive impact on those in need. Use our care package checklist for support.
• Support Local Organizations: Find a cause that resonates with your family, such as youth empowerment or elder care, and support it through donations or volunteer work. This shared experience can create a sense of purpose and community involvement.

November brings Movember, a global movement spotlighting men’s mental health and well-being. It’s the perfect time to address the unique challenges faced by boys, young men, and male-identifying individuals. Societal pressures often discourage vulnerability and help-seeking, leaving many feeling isolated. However, building community and fostering connection can significantly bolster resilience and improve mental health outcomes.

Supporting youth mental health doesn’t always require professional intervention. Small actions can make a big impact:

1. Encourage Open Conversations

Ask open-ended questions like, “How did that make you feel?” or “What might make this situation easier?”

Download our Conversation Cards for Changemakers to spark meaningful discussions at home or in group settings.

Or view our video on Effective Communication: A Guide For Parents

2. Model Healthy Coping Skills

Demonstrate techniques like journaling or deep breathing, encouraging youth to explore what works for them.

For extra support, download our Coping Skills Worksheet—a helpful tool to guide youth in identifying and practicing healthy ways to manage stress and emotions.

Download our Coping Skills Worksheet in English

Descarga nuestra hoja de Trabajo de Habilidades de Afrontamiento en Español

3. Normalize Seeking Help

Emphasize that asking for support is a strength. Share emergency resources to ensure youth know where to turn.

Finding support is a vital step in fostering mental health and resilience. Here are resources tailored to men, boys, and male-identifying individuals to promote self-care, connection, and well-being:

General Mental Health Resources:

• Movember Men’s Health Resources: Offers valuable resources specifically tailored to men’s mental health, including self-care tips, peer support programs, and educational materials.
• A Call to Men: Focuses on promoting healthy, respectful manhood by challenging traditional gender norms and offering tools to help boys and young men build stronger emotional connections and advocate for gender equity.
• Boys Town: Provides resources on social skills and coping strategies tailored for young boys and teenagers.

Emergency Support Services:

• Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741 for free, confidential support 24/7.
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 for immediate help and resources.
• Boys Town National Hotline: Call 1-800-448-3000 or text “VOICE” to 20121 for support from trained counselors.
• Love is Respect: Text “LOVEIS” to 22522 or call 1-866-331-9474 for guidance on unhealthy or abusive relationships.

Encourage youth in need to take the first step toward seeking help. Support is always available to create safer, braver spaces for all.

Join Us This Movember

This Movember, let’s challenge stigma and foster a culture of openness and resilience for male-identifying youth. Whether by joining initiatives, downloading resources, or simply starting a conversation, we can make a difference. Together, we can create safer, braver spaces where all youth can thrive.

Explore more resources.

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time to raise awareness, educate the public, and promote essential resources to prevent domestic violence. Each year, domestic violence affects millions, leaving lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars. At the same time, Safe At Home is committed to fostering safer, braver spaces for those impacted by domestic violence. Through our trauma-informed Margaret’s Place programs, we provide direct support to students in schools by offering counseling, education, and peer leadership programs that help young people build healthy relationships.

Even if your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, this month, we are sharing valuable resources to empower communities and equip them with the tools needed to make a difference both inside and outside the classroom.

Although domestic violence can impact anyone, certain populations are more vulnerable. Recognizing how domestic violence affects different communities is crucial to ensuring equitable support and culturally sensitive resources.

These statistics demonstrate the diverse ways in which domestic violence affects different communities and highlight the need for culturally competent, inclusive resources to address this widespread issue.

Abuse can often be difficult to recognize, especially in relationships where power and control are involved. Here are some common signs that may indicate an abusive relationship:

• Extreme Jealousy: Constantly accusing you of being unfaithful or questioning who you spend time with
• Possessiveness: Acting as if they “own” you, controlling what you wear, where you go and who you see.
• Isolation: Cutting you off from friends, family, or social activities. They may guilt you into staying home or discourage you from seeing others.
• Constant Criticism: Regularly belittling you, calling you names, or making you feel worthless. They may make you doubt your self-worth or abilities.
• Blaming You for Their Behavior: Saying things like, “If you didn’t do that, I wouldn’t have gotten triggered,” or blaming you for their problems or bad mood.
• Unpredictable Mood Swings: Switching from being loving and caring to angry and violent without warning. You might feel like you’re “walking on eggshells”. 

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to reach out for immediate help and support. Abusive behavior will often escalate over time, and early intervention is key to preventing further harm.

Remember, there is help and abuse is never your fault.

Starting conversations about domestic violence can feel overwhelming, but it’s essential to foster understanding and create safer spaces for all. Whether you’re communicating with children, teens, friends, or seeking help yourself, here’s how to approach these important discussions during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and beyond.

Communicating with Younger Children (Elementary Age)

Communicating with Teens and High School Students

Whether you are a student, educator, or supporter, everyone can play a role in creating safer, braver spaces this Domestic Violence Awareness Month. View upcoming events and ways to get involved below:

NYC Domestic Violence Awareness Month Events:

A full list of Domestic Violence Awareness Month events happening throughout New York City.

View the New York Calendar.

California Partnership to End Domestic Violence Events:

Find Domestic Violemce Awarenss Month events across California that promote awareness and action.

View the California Calendar.

Running Your Own Domestic Violence Awareness Month Campaign

Throughout the month, our Margaret’s Place counselors and Peer Leaders will be leading school-wide campaigns, promoting respect, healthy relationships, and raising awareness about domestic violence. Even if your school or community doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, you can still make an impact by running your own Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign. Here’s how to get started:

1. Set a Goal: Define the focus of your campaign, whether it’s promoting healthy relationships, mental health, or domestic violence awareness.
2. Engage Your Community: Plan events, distribute flyers, and use social media to raise awareness. Encourage participation through events, workshops, or activities.
3. Create Materials: Get creative with social media graphics, posters, and videos to make your message impactful.
4. Collaborate with Peers: Work with your student body or local organizations to amplify your campaign’s reach.

For more detailed steps and ideas, check out our Campaign Tip Sheet.

Remember, you don’t need to be part of Margaret’s Place to make a difference!

Domestic violence is an issue that affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, lets educate ourselves, further support those in need, and raise awareness, so that together, we can create a future where everyone feels safer and braver.

Explore more resources.

The start of a new school year is a time full of anticipation, opportunities, and challenges for students, parents, and teachers alike. This period is more than just a return to the classroom; it’s an opportunity to reset, create new routines, and foster a supportive community where everyone can flourish. 

Whether you’re a student facing new challenges or an adult guiding young people through them, this season offers the chance to embrace growth and healing.

Establish a routine that includes time for relaxation and self-care. Setting aside time each evening to unwind can make a difference.

We love this recommendation from the Calm App on creating a balanced daily routine: Daily Routine Tips.

Another fun way to dedicate time to self-care is through our Self-Care Bingo card. Download it and find inspiration for taking care of yourself.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s a counselor, a teacher, or a peer, support is available.

At Margaret’s Place, we offer trauma-informed counseling and peer support to help students navigate these challenges.

If your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, look for other school resources or local community organizations dedicated to mental health and well-being.

Follow us on social media for tips and resources throughout the school year:

Instagram: @SafeAtHomeFoundation | @Margarets_Place

Twitter: @SafeAtHomeFound

Facebook: Safe At Home Foundation

TikTok: @Margarets_Place

Back to school is also about finding your place in the community—whether you’re new to the school or returning after a break.

Be a Good Friend: Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in creating a supportive environment. Discover more about the power of friendship with this article from the Jed Foundation: The Power of Friendship.

Be an Upstander: Learn how to be an upstander and make a positive impact in your school community: How to Be an Upstander.

If You’re the New Kid: Remember that everyone has been new at some point. Take small steps to reach out, whether it’s joining a club or simply starting a conversation with a classmate. Here are some conversation starters to help you break the ice:

Starting a conversation with these topics can help you connect with others and find common ground. Good luck!

Utilize Resources: Schools often have numerous resources available to help students feel connected. Check with your teacher, advisor, or the front office to find out what’s available.

Your role is vital in helping students navigate the ups and downs of the school year. Encourage open communication and be a source of stability as they adjust to new routines.

Read these tips for healthy parent-child communication: Healthy Parent-Child Communication.

Managing Your Own Stress: Adults often feel the pressure of the back-to-school season just as much as students. Prioritize self-care and manage your time effectively to avoid burnout. Refer to our Managing Stress & Anxiety recommendations above for support.

Set Realistic Goals: Whether you’re a student or an adult, setting achievable goals can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the year. Use this worksheet from TherapistAid to break down your goals: Goal Breakdown Worksheet.

You can also save our SMART Goals Tracker below to guide you through setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals, making it easier to monitor your success and celebrate your milestones.

Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and other responsibilities with planners, apps, or to-do lists. Explore free downloads to find a planner that suits your needs: Free Planner Downloads.

Take Breaks: Remember that taking breaks is essential for maintaining mental health. Ensure your routine includes time for relaxation and downtime.

At Safe At Home, we are dedicated to creating safe spaces where students can heal and grow. Our groundbreaking Margaret’s Place program offers trauma-informed counseling, peer leadership opportunities, and community-building initiatives, all designed to empower students and support their well-being. Since our inception, Margaret’s Place has made a profound impact, with over 181,000 youth, families, and communities served across the country. We are proud to have 20 Margaret’s Place sites in school communities across California, New York, Connecticut, and Tahiti. Through a partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, we will open 9 additional schools this year.

Read our 2022-2023 Impact Report and stay tuned for the 2023-2024 report available this fall. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified when it’s released.

As we continue to expand our program sites, we aim to extend the healing impact of Margaret’s Place beyond the four walls of the room. Through our blog, newsletters, social media, and website, we offer resources, tips, and tools to support students, families, and educators nationwide. Even if your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place, you can still access valuable resources to help you navigate challenges and foster a supportive community.

This event is part of a larger initiative where over 45 MiLB teams are participating from June 9 until September 2, 2024. Each participating team will raffle or auction off a Joe Torre autographed baseball, with proceeds benefiting either Safe At Home, or a local domestic violence organization. Teams will also distribute educational materials, share Safe At Home’s 30 second PSA, and engage with local domestic violence organizations to further extend our reach and impact.

Our partnership with MiLB allows us take the healing powers of Margaret’s place beyond the classroom and into the ballpark, empowering fans across the country to join us in our mission. As Joe himself said, “Millions are exposed to violence, trauma, and abuse every year. It is vital that we raise awareness and that they have access to support. We are proud to partner with Minor League Baseball and Topps to educate and inspire MiLB fans to make a difference and join us in cultivating a new generation of healthy, respectful relationships, where everybody feels safe at home.”

The success of “Joe Torre Night” with the Somerset Patriots is a testament to the power of community and sports in driving positive change. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Somerset Patriots community, and especially to the Kalafer family, for their unwavering support of our mission. It was a night filled with baseball, hope, and a shared commitment to making the world a safer place for children and families.

For more opportunities to support Safe At Home through our partnership with MiLB, including finding upcoming games in your area, visit joetorre.org/milb.

Read more about the event from MiLB    |    Read our Press Release

NEW YORK, August 9, 2024 — Joe Torre Safe At Home today announced that Chris Flood, Verizon’s Atlantic North Market President, and Jeff Proctor, President and Founder of television production company ProAngle Media, have joined its Board of Directors.

In his current role as Verizon’s Atlantic North Market President, Flood is responsible for overseeing all consumer sales, distribution, and operational execution across the market’s 12 states and the District of Columbia, leading a team of more than 2,900 employees. Flood is a distinguished leader with a remarkable 22- year career at Verizon, during which he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a proven track record of success. In the Atlantic North Market, he has cultivated a culture of integrity, performance excellence, transparency, and a strong commitment to giving back to the communities Verizon serves. In his previous role, Flood served as the Consumer Vice President of Verizon Consumer Group’s Northeast Region, where he led corporate retail and indirect sales.

“It is a privilege to join Safe At Home, and it’s a responsibility that I embrace with great pride and excitement,” said Flood. “I am honored to be a part of this incredible organization and contribute to its mission of providing essential resources, security and hope to children impacted by domestic violence.”

With more than 30 years of experience in television production, Proctor produced hundreds of professional and collegiate sporting events and served as executive producer for thousands of others. He is the President and Founder of ProAngle Media, a production company responsible for local and national telecasts for clients such as CBS, ESPN, FOX, the Los Angeles Chargers, among others. Recently, Proctor expanded beyond his primary focus on sports to develop, sell and produce game show “Person, Place or Thing,” which currently airs on nearly 200 television stations nationally. Prior to establishing ProAngle, Proctor was the Vice President of Sports for KCBS and KCAL where he oversaw the duopoly’s sports content.

“I am excited and honored to be a part of Safe At Home,” said Proctor. “Not only am I a long-time admirer of Joe and Ali Torre, but to be a part of such an incredible organization that helps kids in need is very satisfying and rewarding. I look forward to helping Safe At Home accomplish its mission of helping at risk kids cope with their trauma and find hope and healing for their futures.”

More than 20 years ago, Ali and Joe Torre founded Safe At Home to end the cycle of violence and abuse through education. Today, with education as its foundation, in schools and beyond, it strengthens every person’s courage, knowledge, and resilience through healthy relationship building, coping and self- care tools, and accessible resources. It teaches children, families, and communities to be changemakers who build a world free from harm. Through its Margaret’s Place model, named in honor of Joe’s mother, Safe at Home creates a safe space in schools, offering both trauma informed intervention and prevention services for empowerment, education, and understanding. Safe at Home currently has 20 Margaret’s Place sites that operate in New York and Westchester, NY; Los Angeles, CA; Cincinnati, OH; and Tahiti, French Polynesia. This school year, Margaret’s Place programs have reached 21,394 students, and since its inception, Safe At Home has served more than 181,000 youth, their families and communities.

For more information, visit www.joetorre.org.

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Media Contact:
Sabrina Strauss
Goodman Media International
sstrauss@goodmanmedia.com

Participants in the tennis clinic and round-robin tournament put in their best efforts, working up a sweat and enjoying the beautiful weather. Meanwhile, golfers competed in a “Best Ball” format, aiming for the lowest net and gross scores. The camaraderie and friendly competition were highlights of the day. 

Congratulations to all of our award winners:

Low Gross: Bob Devlin, Michael Devlin, Michael Gilmore, John Hoffman, Elliot Levine, John Starks

Low Net: Andrew Clarke, Mike Shea, Sean Byrne, Brian Shapiro, Matt Boland

Closest to the Pin: Scott Burrell, Marie Jensen

Longest Drive: Whit Mayberry, Johanna Redpath

Tennis Round Robin: Maury Gostfrand, Steve Pastor, Lori Sunkin, Andrea Torre

Maile Zambuto, our CEO, spoke about the transformative power of the Margaret’s Place programs, sharing inspiring stories of students who have found hope and healing through Safe At Home. She also took a moment to recognize and introduce our honoree, Frank Longobardi, a dedicated board member whose passion, leadership, and support have been instrumental in Safe At Home’s growth and success. Frank’s heartfelt remarks highlighted the importance of our mission and the impact we continue to make. His energy and motivation were also key in driving the success of our evening pledge donations.

We were also honored to be joined by Fritz Simeon, a recent graduate of White Plains HS where we have had a Margaret’s Place program for over 15 years. Fritz moved many in the audience as he spoke about the support and guidance he received through Margaret’s Place, specifically through Ms. S, who accompanied Fritz on stage. Ms. S started her journey as a Margaret’s Place student and is now guiding students to heal and grow through the same supportive environment—a true testament to the transformative power of our programs.

One of the highlights of the evening was the panel featuring Joe Torre, Ken Daneyko, John Starks, Jim Leyritz, and Tim O’Neill. The panelists reminisced about their days in sports, sharing laughs, insights, and previously unheard stories. The conversation provided a unique perspective on their illustrious careers and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.