UNDERSTANDING AND EMBRACING COMPASSION FOR MARGINALIZED YOUTH

COMPASSION

serves to foster holistic well-being and empowerment.

Since its inception 26 years ago, iHuman has believed in the transformational power of the arts. As a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to altering the trajectory of at-risk youth through arts programs, art therapy, and artistic mentorship, iHuman has succeeded in creating a holistic sanctuary that fosters resilience, growth and creativity. 

iHuman serves at-risk youth aged 12 to 24 who are marginalized. The impacts of marginalization are far-reaching, affecting emotional, physical, and mental health. Between the ages of 12 and 24, a young person's development has long-lasting implications on their economic security, health, and well-being. Feeling like you are not valued or respected by society impacts trust, leading to anxiety, feelings of isolation, and anger. While addressing youth's immediate needs, our team fosters personal growth and development. We do so with the hope that we contribute to their overall well-being and future success and have a long-term, positive impact on their lives. At the core of all of iHuman's endeavors is COMPASSION. Compassion serves to foster holistic well-being and empowerment in the following ways:

 EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

Marginalized youth face multiple challenges, such as poverty, discrimination, trauma, and lack of resources. Compassion creates a safe space where they feel valued, validated, and understood. This emotional connection can help them to cope and build resilience.

TRUST AND CONNECTION

Compassion helps to establish trust and build meaningful relationships between marginalized youth and our outreach workers. When youth feel genuinely cared for and respected, they are more likely to engage in the support services offered to them, which leads to better outcomes.

EMPOWERMENT

Compassion empowers youth to acknowledge their strengths, capabilities, and agency. Our outreach workers recognize the potential of our youth and work collaboratively with them to set goals, overcome challenges, and foster a sense of self-efficacy.

REDUCED STIGMA

Compassion can reduce the stigma and discrimination often experienced by marginalized youth. Treating our youth with empathy and understanding helps to break down stereotypes and biases, promoting a more inclusive and accepting environment.

IMPROVED MENTAL HEALTH

Compassionate support from iHuman Youth Society can positively affect marginalized youth's mental health and well-being. There is a large body of research that supports compassionate interventions, such as mindfulness-based practices and empathetic listening, as a means of reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma and the promotion of resilience and recovery.

Compassion has the potential to create lasting positive impacts on the lives of marginalized youth.