At Give Back, we are dedicated to finding new and accessible ways for our students to connect, learn, and grow together. This is in part why we are thrilled to be offering Community Cafes, an online space created to bring you, our students, together from all across the country.

Sometimes, building or maintaining friendships can feel hard. Especially when life gets busy or throws challenges your way. Connection does not have to be perfect or constant. There will be peaks and valleys. Some things will change while others stay the same. And the community you choose to build is one that best serves you. Maybe you want to have a huge group of friends, or you prefer two-five close ones. Some of your friends could live down the street, or across the country. You have the choice in the community you build.

Personally, I have preferred to keep my circle small. I have two best friends, one who I met when I was just a year old, Sarah. We grew up as neighbors for 10 years before I moved 1,167 miles away: from Oklahoma to Las Vegas. We chose to find ways to stay connected through phone calls, writing letters, and planning visits every year. We are going on 25 years of friendship and have supported each other in all stages of life, from starting high school, boyfriends, college and career changes. 

Not all friendships start at a young age. I met my second best friend, Maya, as a freshman in college. Our bond was instant and deep, despite meeting later in life. Our friendship is proof that it is never too late to form a life-changing connection. These friendships have shown me that the most meaningful communities grow out of intention, not timing or distance. That is why Give Back is offering Community Cafes; so students can find support, encouragement, and connection that lasts. 

Give Back is so thrilled to be offering three new welcoming, interactive, and inspiring online forums. Each is designed to help you- our students- to thrive personally, academically, and creatively. 

1. Tools for Success - This time will be an opportunity to build a toolkit of practical skills. Students will develop a variety of skills including resume building, time management, career planning, and financial literacy to support any path they choose. 
2. Creative Corner - This will be a space to express, reflect, and build resiliency. Students do not have to be an “artist”, just bring a notebook, pencils, and an open mind. This space will provide art projects to spark student’s creativity and imagination. 
3. Cafe Conversations - This is where real talk happens. There will be student-led discussions to share personal experiences, ask questions, or just listen. This is a space to remind our students that you are never alone, and others share a similar journey.

The purpose of Community Cafes are to make students feel seen, heard, and supported. They will quickly learn that they are never alone. Research shows that students who feel connected to their peers are 50% more likely to report high levels of well-being and are more resilient when facing academic and personal stress. Virtual connection is an opportunity to bridge the gap between busy schedules and allow students to come together, share their stories, and build powerful connections.

Community Cafes are being offered in addition to our monthly Scholar Saturdays, virtual events that already bring together more than 250 students from across the country. Participants range from 8th grade to seniors in college. These events last about 90 minutes and are aimed at increasing students' social, emotional, and resource capital. They expand our students' community, foster coping strategies, and better prepare them for school and the workforce. 

One more bonus, all Community Cafe events count toward Give Back scholarship participation requirements. Students are investing in themselves and their future every time they attend. Get excited, and let’s build something meaningful together!