A Cry for Community Among Teens
By Steve Gahagen
We all need to belong. We all need to be part of a community where we are seen, valued, and loved. This is especially true for young people, who are growing in self-awareness, confidence, and identity. Healthy relationships are not just nice to have—they are foundational to well-being.
In today’s digital age, relationship skills can be harder to develop. Technology often replaces real connection. And the COVID-19 pandemic only deepened the gap, creating widespread disconnection, loneliness, and isolation—especially among children and teens.
Pediatrician Dr. Cheryl Wallace puts it simply: Life-giving community is more important than ever.
U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, called the pandemic’s impact on youth mental health “devastating.” In fact, a study from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute found that clinicians are calling for more programs focused on prevention and early intervention. MCRI’s Professor Harriet Hiscock emphasized:
“With about 50 percent of mental health disorders beginning before the age of 14, prevention and early intervention are paramount if we want to reduce the lifetime prevalence of mental health disorders and allow children to live their best possible lives.”
That’s why we do what we do.
At Play to Your Strengths, we are passionate about helping young people thrive as they discover and embrace their unique strengths. One of the most impactful ways we do this is through Strengths Mentoring Clubs—safe, positive, and fun communities where students learn to identify their strengths, celebrate the strengths of others, and grow together.
While we are not mental health professionals, our programs are designed to build social skills, leadership skills, and resilience. Every club is led by caring, trained adult mentors who are fully invested in helping students grow in confidence and purpose.
We believe every young person deserves a place to belong. A place where they can be encouraged, equipped, and empowered to live their greatest story.
We’re building that place—one strengths-based community at a time.
Questions to Consider:
What needs do you see among young people in your community? What unique challenges do kids have growing up today?
What opportunities did you have for life-giving community when growing up? Who invested in you and affirmed your value? Who believed in you?
Is there a student who is not your child you can encourage and, perhaps, mentor? Their story could be dramatically different because you did.