Grand Forks area schools seeing impact from implementing Sources of Strength mental health resiliency program
GRAND FORKS, ND — Four area schools—Carrington, Emerado, Manvel and Thompson—are celebrating the success of implementing Sources of Strength, a peer-led program designed to promote mental well-being, resilience and suicide prevention among students.
In 2024, each of these schools was able to implement the Sources of Strength curriculum thanks to dedicated funding from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation, through their Shut Out the Stigma initiative. Sources of Strength uses a train-the-trainer model that’s tailored to the unique needs of each school’s students, creating a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment throughout the school community.
Carrington Public School trained eight adults in the community, including school staff, public health workers and a pastor as well as 27 students in grades 7–12. Roughly 250 youth had the opportunity to participate in a multitude of Sources of Strength activities including a mental health fair, volunteered at an Out of the Darkness suicide prevention walk and creative outreach like sidewalk chalk messages and gratitude posters.
“We’re seeing students better understand the support systems around them,” said Molly Rzaszutak, Carrington High School Sources of Strength advisor. “Even students who were hesitant at first have found value in being part of the program.”
Emerado Elementary, a PreK–8 school with more than 100 students, trained two staff and nine peer leaders in fifth through eighth grade and engaged the entire school in monthly strength themes. Projects like a generosity campaign and a penny war fundraiser raised $800 for a local animal rescue.
“As such a small school, we are so tight-knit and everyone cares about everyone,” said Madisynn Noeldner, Emerado Public School counselor, “Having Sources of Strength curriculum has made it easier and more fun to break down stigma and build community.”
Manvel Public School focused on staff-wide training with around 20 teachers participating. The program reached approximately 100 kindergarten through fifth grade students, emphasizing suicide prevention and awareness.
“It’s an easy-to-follow curriculum and it’s impactful,” said Allison Gottwalt, Manvel school counselor. “In a rural community like ours, it’s important to normalize conversations around mental health.”
Thompson Public School launched its first year of Sources of Strength. Twenty-six students - from seventh grade to seniors - participated. They implemented wide-reaching campaigns for the 300 students on gratitude, trust and generosity, even creating a school mural.
Joe Kulas, school counselor stated, “It’s been powerful to see the students use Sources of Strength to take ownership of the school’s culture.”
Across all four schools, the Sources of Strength program has increased awareness and reduced stigma around mental health. It also fostered stronger connections among students, staff and the broader community. The BCBSND Caring Foundation remains committed to expanding behavioral and mental health access across North Dakota which includes continuing to empower schools and youth with funding for resources and tools to better navigate life’s challenges; building a future where they are seen, supported and never alone.
About the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation
Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through giving and investing, the Caring Foundation focuses on key health issues to help improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans and their communities. Caring Foundation staff collaborate with grantees to support non-profit sustainability, promote shared outcomes and create lasting change.
