RADical Hope is a Back-to-School Essential

The start of a new academic year brings opportunities to build friendships, establish routines and navigate new responsibilities. The need for fundamental life skills and genuine connection is particularly important during these times of transition.

During the Fall 2026 semester, over 40 partner organizations are delivering RADical Health to an estimated 6,580+ participants and Guides. Through structured peer-led conversations, the program helps young adults strengthen connections, manage stress and make decisions grounded in their principles and priorities to support them now and throughout their lives.

Growing Our Community

This semester, ten organizations are joining our RADical Hope network of 100+ partners, extending our reach into six new states: Alabama, Wisconsin, New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah and Mississippi, spanning the South, the Midwest and the Mountain West.

These partnerships bring the program to more communities and reflect a shared commitment to giving young adults opportunities to build resilience and cultivate meaningful relationships.

Fundamental Skills to Empower First Year Students

The transition to college brings new academic and personal demands. This semester, 12 schools are offering RADical Health specifically for first-year students. Incorporating the program into the first-year experience gives students dedicated time to connect with peers, reflect on their priorities and develop skills they can draw on throughout college and beyond.

“I found it fascinating how much priorities, stress, decision making, and connecting with others all have in common. They are each things that take constant effort to master, and require consistent time to ponder about your progress. They each play a role in each other such as priorities are shown in what you are stressed about and how you make your decisions. I loved thinking about each of these as a whole car, and if we didn’t have one of these parts, the car wouldn’t be able to go long distances.”

Southern Virginia University participant

Supporting Athletes Beyond Competition

Eighteen partners, representing 43% of this fall’s network, are delivering RADical Health through athletic programs. These partnerships span Division I, II and III college athletics, as well as high school and professional sports organizations.

Athletics can provide a strong sense of community, yet performance expectations, injury, competition for playing time and responsibilities beyond sport can create distinct pressures.

Through RADical Health, our athletic partners are creating space for athletes to connect beyond competition and strengthen skills that support their wellbeing in every part of their lives.