We are excited about our Afterschool Evening Event next week. If you haven’t signed up yet, it’s not too late! Email Chrissie if you can come: chrissie@liftyouthcenter.org

My weekly upLIFT is a story from our Ringgold Youth Center. I asked our Program Manager, Morgan Wright, to share something with you today, a story that exemplifies student impact. This is what she gave me: 

“Since the beginning of the school year, one LIFT student who came from a background of severe abuse and neglect has experienced incredible growth. When they first arrived, they were withdrawn and hesitant to trust anyone. Through the steady support of caring staff, consistent routines, and a welcoming community, LIFT has helped this student slowly open up, build friendships, and experience what it feels like to simply be a normal teenager.

Participating in Teen Group Therapy has been especially transformative, providing a safe space to share their story and begin processing past trauma in healthy ways. Over time, this student has found their voice, formed meaningful connections, and begun to see a future shaped not by their past, but by hope and resilience. 

Today, this student still carries their story—but it no longer defines them. At LIFT, this student has found safety, belonging, and the freedom to just be a teenager. Through consistent support, meaningful relationships, and the courage to open up, this student is discovering strength they never knew they had.”

Wow. As I type this from my desk, I can hear the boisterous noise of students playing, eating a snack, and unwinding from their school day. It’s pretty fun and joyful. That, happiness, and stress-relief, in and of itself, are a worthwhile investment, but when you learn about how much deeper this experience is for some of our students, you must feel good about supporting this mission! Being loved, inspired, found, and trusted… it can make all the difference. 

Thank you for being an upLIFTer!!