As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re reminded of the power of gratitude, the quiet force that strengthens our relationships, fuels our purpose, and brings warmth to our programs. At CASE for Kids, what makes our work truly special isn’t just the activities or curriculum—it’s the people. Every day, staff, students, and families come together to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring space where growth and connection flourish.

This month, we’re celebrating the spirit of gratitude and appreciation that binds our CASE community. The history of Thanksgiving is the story of diverse people working together to build a strong community (Thanksgiving Day Tradition, Britannica, 2020). Our success at CASE is built on teamwork and collaboration. Site leaders, tutors, custodians, parents, and volunteers all play a vital role.

Each day, the Harris County Department of Education’s Center for Afterschool Enrichment (CASE) division has multiple reasons to be thankful. These include the students enrolled in our programs, their parents, community partners, and the school districts we support. Expressing gratitude reminds us that the work we do matters. When we focus on our purpose, we strengthen our relationships with those we serve.

I encourage you to take a moment to think about who made your day better this week. Which students showed kindness or growth? What made you smile today?

When youth practice gratitude during Thanksgiving, they cultivate a mindset that can positively shape their emotional and social development. Expressing thankfulness helps students recognize the value of relationships, community, and the opportunities they might otherwise overlook. It encourages empathy, strengthens family bonds, and promotes a sense of belonging and appreciation.

This season let’s take time to thank those who make our programs shine—from site leaders and tutors to parents and volunteers. But let’s also carry that spirit beyond the holidays. When we lead with appreciation, we build stronger communities, deeper connections, and a more compassionate future for the youth we serve.

This season let’s take time to say thank you to those who make our program shine.

Annually in October, communities throughout the country unite to recognize National Bullying Prevention Month. National Bullying Prevention Month is a time dedicated to raising awareness, promoting kindness, and encouraging youth and adults to take a stand against bullying in all its forms. Bullying is defined as a form of repeated aggressive and violent behavior towards others and involves an imbalance of power (Ball & Bindler, 2008; Olweus, 1994; Selekman & Praeger, 2006).  This type of behavior affects millions of children and teens each year, leaving lasting impacts on mental health, academic performance, and self-esteem (Albayrak, S., Yildiz, A., & Erol, S.,2016). Bullying can occur in schools, online, or in social settings. No matter the form, bullying is a serious issue that should be recognized and addressed.

There are times when bullying behavior might get confused with horseplay or playful mocking that is a result of someone’s mishap. Although these incidents can create conflict and misunderstanding, bullying is very different.  According to the National Bullying Prevention Center, bullying is different from other non-threatening behaviors in the following ways. Conflict is a disagreement or argument in which both sides express their views with no negative intent. However, bullying is negative behavior directed by someone exerting power and control over another person's mental and physical wellbeing (www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org).

With bullying, there is often a power imbalance between those involved. In many cases, students who bully others perceive their target as vulnerable in some way and often find satisfaction in harming them. As a result, it is extremely important that youth serving entities have access to resources to minimize the occurrence of bullying. To that end, the PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center initiated National Bullying Prevention Month in 2006. The campaign encourages schools, parents, and youth organizations to host events, share resources, and foster safe, inclusive environments so that all youth are safe and supported in their schools, communities, and online person (www.pacerkidsagainstbullying.org)..  

Recent data from the National Health Interview Survey shows that 34% of teenagers aged 12–17 reported being bullied in the past 12 months. The following list statistics and troubling disparities among groups:

• Girls are more likely to be bullied than boys (38.3% vs. 29.9%).
• Sexual and gender minority youth face significantly higher rates of bullying (47.1%) compared to their peers (30.0%).
• Students with developmental disabilities are also more vulnerable (44.4% vs. 31.3%).
• White non-Hispanic teens report the highest bullying rates among racial groups (39.6%), while Asian teens report the lowest (16.1%).

The mental health impact is profound:

• 29.8% of bullied teens experience symptoms of anxiety, compared to 14.5% of non-bullied teens.
• 28.5% of bullied teens report symptoms of depression, more than double the rate of their non-bullied peers.

One of the most powerful tools in the prevention of bullying is student voice. When young people feel heard and supported, they are more likely to speak up, seek help, and support others. Schools can foster this by creating safe spaces, encouraging open dialogue, and training staff to recognize and respond to bullying behavior effectively. Bullying prevention is not just a one-month effort, it’s a year-round commitment. By working together, we can build a culture of respect and kindness where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered. Let’s make this October a turning point. Let’s stand together against bullying.

Refences

Ball, J. W., & Bindler, R. C. (2008). Pediatric nursing—Caring for children (4th ed.). Pearson Prentice Hall. Bauer, S. N., Lozano, P., & Rivara, F. P

Albayrak, S., Yıldız, A., & Erol, S. (2016). Assessing the effect of school bullying prevention programs on reducing bullying. Children and youth services review, 63, 1-9.