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Reach For The Stars
501(c)3 Nonprofit
First-ever nonprofit to use ASTRONOMY for MENTAL HEALTH
Our Mission:
Reach For The Stars is a pioneering and inclusive nonprofit that harnesses the transformative power of astronomy and STEAM to promote mental health and wellness among children, youth and the community.
The Problem
Due to the worldwide crisis of mental health children suffering from severe anxiety, stress, the epidemic of loneliness, along with Arizona being higher than the national average for suicide among young teens, Reach For The Stars believes that it is critical, now more than ever, to be a guide for our youth and give them a unique, powerful, fun, and whole-person way to cope and transform. When health problems are not addressed early, they can easily have lasting consequences into adulthood.
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Even though children are the main focus, our community astronomy events bring people of all ages, with reports of lasting, uplifting change. Space exploration is one of the most awe-inspiring frontiers available, especially to children. Our specialty is making a connection through our many programs, events, advanced equipment, and experiences: lowering depression by widening perspectives, enhancing spirituality with views of galaxies nebula, star clusters, planets etc, harnessing wonder, peace, as well as sparking creative thinking through STEM.
The Solution & Programs
Personal Growth: Self-Esteem and Confidence: Completing projects and solving problems contribute to a sense of achievement and self-worth. Social Skills: Camps offer a communal setting where kids can make friends and learn to work with others. Global Awareness: Astronomy offers a cosmic perspective that can help kids appreciate the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
Mental Health Benefits: Reduced Stress: The wonder and beauty of the cosmos can offer a refreshing break from daily stressors, providing mental health benefits, in addition, being in nature and amplified silence of the night is equally beneficial. Mindfulness: Observing celestial objects can be a meditative experience, encouraging mindfulness and a break from screen time. Therapeutic Benefits: For some, looking at the stars or working on a project can serve as an effective coping mechanism for issues like anxiety or depression.
​Educational Advantages: ​​Interdisciplinary Learning: STEAM camps integrate the study of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics, encouraging a more holistic understanding of the world. Critical Thinking: Activities that require problem-solving and logical reasoning help develop critical thinking skills. Scientific Literacy: With astronomy as a focus, children become familiar with scientific terminology, theories, and methodologies, making them more scientifically literate.
​Skill Development: ​Technical Skills: From understanding the mechanics of a telescope to programming a simple app, kids acquire valuable technical skills. Soft Skills: Teamwork, communication, and leadership skills are often emphasized in a camp setting. Artistic Expression: By including art in our curriculum, children are encouraged to think creatively and express themselves. ​And many others. See Programs page for more information (under construction).
Reach for the Stars (RFTS) is a one-of-a-kind nonprofit which uses fine-tuned programs that offer a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach to mental wellbeing and personal development by using the wonder of astronomy and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics), to foster psychological well-being and new coping mechanisms to help manage stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, setting the foundation for a lifetime of joy and success. These programs assist in many ways including:
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Help us enhance the way our community copes with mental health, and help our local youth get into our programs ASAP. To help fund this innovative mission, please select an option below.
- We need continuous support to keep the programs running and our doors open. Please consider becoming a member to give a monthly donation to the mission, or make a one time donation via the button below!
TESTIMONIALS
Check out our Reviews on Great Nonprofits.org
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