“I think Opening the World is essential for every young adult because it is a space where we can unpack the trauma, obstacles, and hardships from our past without judgment. Joining the OTW community has been one of the best decisions I’ve made as it has allowed me to learn from my trauma, although hard at times, and use that knowledge to grow into who I want to be. We need a place where we can be seen, heard, and heal, and that is what OTW has done for me.”
— L. N.
Facilitate Healing
Opening the World has a positive impact on the mental health of young adults by increasing self-awareness, self-efficacy, resilience, and trust in others, and reducing substance use and recidivism.
Many of our young adults were introduced to Social Services at a very young age, and usually, under traumatic circumstances. They were forced to work with caseworkers and see individual therapists, family therapists, and/or counselors at school, which often did little to relieve their pain. It is no wonder they have an aversion to “therapy“ and are often resistant to “therapeutic interventions” when they first join the OTW program.
We believe empower our young adults by providing a safe environment, peer community, and capacity-building skills, giving them the strength to be vulnerable and consider the possibility of healing.
We provide at least two educational and bonding retreats a year, during which time our young adults learn more about each other, the OTW alumni and staff, and their own emotions. They are taught how to identify their triggers, how to self-regulate, and given resources and coping skills that can help them during challenging times.
Our meetings, retreats, and travel groups are all facilitated by licensed therapists to ensure the safety and care of each participant.