Recognizing ableism in youth culture is vital for fostering inclusivity and respect for individual youth with disabilities. Ableism, based on assumptions about abilities, can lead to exclusion and discrimination. By raising awareness and taking proactive measures, youth can help create a culture that values everyone's abilities and contributions, regardless of their ability. How does it show up?

During April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, it’s a great time to review how we can help youth navigate healthy relationships, consent, and boundaries.

Black History Month celebrates and honors the achievements of Black people, and is a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. It’s also a time to honor and celebrate Black girls who make invaluable contributions to their communities. Empowered girls change their world, and the whole world too.

We can’t avoid the constant influence of body image ideals we see in media, but we can be aware of them and remind ourselves that all bodies are valuable. Check out these 10 reminders that your body is great no matter what society defines as “ideal.”

More often than expected, we hear adults and parents of young people who are exploring their identity say, “It’s just a phase.”

The phase is learning, the phase is identity exploration, the phase is finding out what fits. It serves a purpose while youth grow up.

Being a young person in school can get extremely challenging when dealing with bullying and other aggressive behaviors from peers. As an adult ally, learn more about how you can recognize aggressive behaviors and how to support youth who are targets.

Tracy Berry of McKenzie River Broadcasting shares the great news that Ophelia's Place has opened a downtown location in Albany Oregon, expanding OP's empowerment services. Let’s listen.

Albany-area girls ages 10-18 will soon have the opportunity to meet new friends, explore new interests, and connect with trauma-informed adults to help navigate the joys and challenges of their teen years.

“New Year, New You” is so done. What your body looks like doesn’t define your value or your ability to be loved. Use the new year to celebrate the incredible person you already are.

Our insecurities around food and body image can increase during a time of financial insecurity and food scarcity, which gives more power to our “internal food police.” Healthy, happy eating can help.

While schools decide how and when to bring students back to class, OP offers virtual Community Groups to help girls stay social, make friends, and feel a part of something valuable, safe, and fun.

Growing up, changing bodies, relationships and dating… all of these topics and more are covered in OP’s What You Wish You Learned in Health Class.

“When we’re faced with situations that seem impossible, sometimes the only thing we can change is our perspective. Once we do, we can begin to see opportunity. And, life is full of opportunity, our job is to find it.”

In addition to the usual notebooks, pencils, and graphing calculators, there are other provisions students need this year. OP offers this slightly different “back-to-school supplies” list to help you and your child get ready for school during COVID-19.

The Oregon wildfires reminded us that the best thing we can do to stay grounded and hopeful is to help others.

“Dare to be who you are; you have a unique perspective and gift that can make the world a better place. Have the courage to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard.”