For Girls

For Adults

Programs

Resources

Funders

A national nonprofit organization, The Ophelia Project is headquartered in Erie, Pennsylvania and has been creating safe social climates since 1997. It emerged as one community's decision to increase parental and community support for girls; we grew to become one of the nation's leading experts in identifying and addressing relational aggression in schools, the workplace and communities. The Ophelia Project partners with educational, civic and community leaders to assess social conditions and advocate healthy peer relationships. Through community building, professional development and school programming, The Ophelia Project educates and empowers kids and adults across North America.

Visit their website www.opheliaproject.org

How adults can help.

Relational Aggression affects everyone. Here are some things you can do.

•Talk Children need to hear from you at a very young age what bullying is and why they shouldn’t do it.

•Listen and Ask Questions Your child may be hesitant to share what is happening to them because of shame or fear of retaliation. Be patient, listen carefully and take what your child says seriously.

•Tell If it happens at school, at sports practice or anyplace your child attends, tell the people in charge. Follow up with a letter and if necessary, go up the chain of command until someone listens and helps to end the bullying. (We don’t recommend calling the bully’s parents unless you have a very good relationship with them. Let the school or the people in charge do that.)

•Keep your child safe If necessary, seek medical or professional help. A target may develop low self esteem or become depressed. Let your child know it is not their fault. It is the bully who has the problem.

When children don’t tell, they give away their power and make the bully stronger!

Volunteer

Critical Issues Committee: We welcome volunteers who would like to take an active role in making transformational change in Nassau County by creating a physically and emotionally safe space for all. The committee is actively involved in all areas including programming, training, workshops and presentations. Members meet once a month as a group and may work on projects independently.

Upcoming Events

Presenters/Trainers: Are needed to bring workshops to schools, community groups and Girl Scout volunteers. Training and support are provided. Workshops are delivered in teams of two trainers. Most presentations are 7-9 PM, Monday through Thursday and occasional weekends.

Training information

Leaders/Mentors/Advisors: Interested in working with girls on this issue? Consider volunteering as a small group mentor in your community and delivering the Ophelia Project Friendship Program. Volunteer candidates must complete a volunteer application, agree to a criminal background check and take training. Delivering the Friendship Program is an 8 week commitment. You can find out more at programs for girls. To complete an online interest indicator, click here.