Social isolation can often lead to bullying, teasing and violence especially in middle and high school. The nonprofit Beyond Differences aims to prevent that and instead promote inclusion among all students.
"Children feel isolated if they don’t feel that they are understood, their identity is valued or appreciated and that they have a sense of belonging," said co-founder Laura Talmus.
Talmus formed the organization 10 years ago after the death of her young daughter Lili who suffered from a cranial facial syndrome. Talmus said Lili felt alone in middle school, so much that they had to start homeschooling her instead.
"She was so sad. Every day she would call me hiding in the girls’ bathroom, being rejected by the girls in her class, not wanting her to sit with them at lunch," Talmus said. "She felt invisible."
Beyond Differences stepped in at the start of the coronavirus pandemic when Asian American Pacific Islander students were being blamed and targeted. It’s also been a year of civil unrest. One of their programs focuses on appreciating each other’s differences whether they’re learning from home or in the classroom.
"Know that everyone’s identity is to be explored and to be celebrated. When you stop thinking about your own self and you begin to give yourself to others, it automatically makes you feel more connected," Talmus explained.
The group started their work in Marin County schools and has since expanded to more than 6,100 schools in all 50 states.
"Our goal is to have 100 percent of all the middle and junior high schools using our curriculum," she said. "It’s up to all of us to help end social isolation and help the youth of America find connection and belonging."
If you know someone who is working to keep us safe during the coronavirus pandemic and would like to nominate them as a KCBS Radio Difference Maker, email differencemakers@kcbsradio.com.