Creating a School Where Every Student Belongs
Thanks to our generous donors, Shaker Middle School’s Sources of Strength program is empowering students to build resilience, foster meaningful connections, and create a school community where every student knows they belong.
The 2025–2026 school year was a remarkable one for the Shaker Middle School Sources of Strength program. Now in its third year, this student-led suicide prevention and wellness initiative continued to grow, empowering Peer Leaders to strengthen connections, promote mental wellness, and make a lasting impact across the entire school community.
The year began with a school-wide Wellness Fair, planned and led by student Peer Leaders. After months of collaboration and preparation, they created an engaging event where classmates explored the program’s eight Sources of Strength—Family Support, Positive Friends, Mentors, Healthy Activities, Generosity, Spirituality, Physical Health, and Mental Health. The fair also brought together local organizations and Northeast Ohio mental health agencies, including Bellefaire, Canine Companions, Shaker Youth Center, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center, and many others, giving students access to valuable resources and trusted community partners.
Community service is another cornerstone of the program. In November, Peer Leaders organized a food collection drive in partnership with the Shaker Youth Center at the Shaker Heights Public Library. Their efforts resulted in more than 200 bags of food donated to local families in need, demonstrating the power of student leadership and generosity.
Throughout the year, Peer Leaders continued to champion kindness, connection, and support by recognizing trusted adults throughout the building, sharing important mental health resources, and assembling nearly 1,000 care packages to encourage classmates during state testing.
The impact of the program extends far beyond individual events. Peer Leaders are helping build a school culture where every student feels valued, connected, and comfortable asking for help.
We are deeply grateful to the Shaker Schools Foundation for its ongoing support and investment in our students. Their generosity helps make these meaningful opportunities, school-wide initiatives, and connections possible, empowering students to build resilience, strengthen relationships, and create a more supportive school community.