2023 · The launch
SOS I
25 youth (grades 9–12), educators, and mental-health counselors from Flint Southwestern Academy came together for a life-changing event — opening real, two-way conversation between generations.
Stories of Survivors
Bridging the generational gap through storytelling.
An intergenerational series for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) youth and elders of Flint — to connect, grow, and heal with one another through the power of story.
Why stories?
When generations tell the truth to one another, healing begins — and no one has to carry their story alone.
Humble beginnings
How it started.
Most recent · 2026
SOS II
A three-part series — Here, Now, Forward — beginning February 2026, deepening the work through storytelling circles, games, and reflection.
In partnership & support with
Greater Flint Health Coalition · Flint & Genesee REACH · Flint ReCAST · City of Flint · Molina Healthcare · Flint Center for Educational Excellence
Goals & intentions
What we set out to do.
Mental health, out loud.
Increase mental-health awareness — especially among BIPOC youth and older generations — and make it safe to talk about.
02
Connection & mentorship
Build socialization and mentorship across generations.
03
Safe, healing spaces
Room for youth to talk about mental-health challenges.
04
Empower every voice
Encourage youth and elders of all ages to share their life story.
05
Pathways forward
Positive role models and avenues for growth — helping decrease recidivism for youth in the system.
The journey
Here. Now. Forward.
Session One
Here
How did I get here? We start where each person is — naming the road that brought them to this circle.
Session Two
Now
I am here — what do I do? Sitting with the present, and the choices in front of us.
Session Three
Forward
How do I move forward? Turning story into a next step, with the circle behind us.
In the room
Moments from the circle.
Watch
The SOS I recap.
Every story carries strength.
Bring Stories of Survivors to your school, church, or community.