The #IAmStronger Initiative runs yearly across campuses that LCS serves in the Orlando area. It is our goal, through IAMSTRONGER, to help educate students, staff members and parents on how to be STRONGER in our words, hearts and minds and to stop hurtful actions.

Purpose: Promote kindness and mindfulness across school campuses to decrease the impact of bullying

2019 Focus: This year our #IAmStronger Campaign focuses on #WordsMatter, noting that our words can be used to light up or tear down others. This initiative highlights a character word monthly, using school activities and parent newsletters to focus on developing and promoting this character trait. It is our goal to educate students to use their words to stand up for and care for themselves and others. We do this by teaching social skills that promote emotional intelligence. We also work to educate students on how and when to seek help for their peers who are struggling.

#IAmStronger Timeline: The week of February 4-8 , which coincides with National School Counseling Week

Promotional Materials: - LCS has partnered with Spoken Word artist Tanner Olsen of WrittenToSpeak.com to provide two spoken word videos about the power of how we use our words. One is geared toward younger and one toward older students, but both are appropriate for all ages. - Each student will receive a light up pen with #WordsMatter on it. - This year we will be running a contest for the best spoken word video promoting our theme WordsMatter. The winner will receive a $50 Target Gift Card. Students can submit their stories by email to WordsMatter@lcsfl.com or by sharing them on our Lutheran Counseling Services Facebook or Instagram page.