North High School Receives $5,000 Grant from Global Hope, Inc.

North High's anti-bullying, stress reduction and other prevention programs will receive a $5,000 boost thanks for a donation from Global Hope, Inc., of Downers Grove. The donation was made possible by a private foundation, Amicus Foundation.

“In addition to academics, we also focus on the emotional well-being of all of our students,” said Social Worker Barbara Czarnik, one of the authors of the grant proposal, in a district release. “Our stress reduction programs, including yoga and other mind body techniques, give students the skills they need for balanced and happy lives, and we’re thrilled to have Global Hope’s support in this effort."

According to the release, part of the grant will be applied to the school’s anti-bullying program. The program is designed to promote and empower students to speak up against bullying behaviors.

"North High is at the forefront of implementing research that shows that a community approach is the most effective in preventing bullying," the release said. "For example, the program will reach teachers, students and the community and include a bullying reporting system accessible to everyone through a website.

Money will also go to North's Operation Snowball program to help students in need of financial support. Snowball is a leadership program emphasizing confidence, opennes, fun and a drug-free lifestyle.

(To learn more about Snowball, click )