Each week, at least two of our Project SAF (Safe, Alive, and Free) Life Coaches visit schools in the communities we serve—checking in with students who are at risk or navigating challenging circumstances. Sometimes it’s a quick hallway chat; other times, a few minutes in the office. These small touchpoints often lead to deeper, ongoing life coaching relationships beyond the school walls.
Although regular school visits weren’t part of Project SAF’s original plan, the program’s greatest strength is its flexibility. Our life coaches go where they’re needed most—especially in schools showing signs of potential violence, tension, or conflict.
During a recent lunch visit, one of our life coaches sensed something was off while standing in a hallway with a colleague. Moments later, a conflict erupted among several students. The coach was pulled into the office to help manage the aftermath—working to deescalate the situation and prevent tensions from spilling into the surrounding community after dismissal.
By the end of the day, several of those students had agreed to start working with the life coach, and a few parent connections were made as well.
Project SAF Life Coaches make an impact one small connection at a time. Just last week, a student reached out in frustration over job hunting. Our coach connected him with our Employment Navigator, who helped him create a resume and explore job leads for teens.
When asked what it’s like to work with youth, one of our life coaches reflected: “I feel like I’m talking to a younger version of myself.” As a mother, she draws on that experience to guide her approach: “If I couldn’t get through to one of my children, I would hope another mother could.”
