Stand UP AJ

Yesterday, we asked what you wish someone would say to you. So let us say it to you right now:

You matter. You belong. You are loved. And on the days you can’t feel it, it’s all still true.

We’re here for you whenever you need us, by call or text at 602-248-8336. But also: there are people in your life who care about you, too. And probably someone who’d light up to hear they matter to you. If they came to mind just now, tell them—you already know what it would mean, and you might find it helps you feel connected too🫶

It's that time of year again! StandUP AJ is hosting our 5th annual BACK TO SCHOOL EVENT!! 📚️✏️🍎

When: July 11th, 9-11
Where: AJ High School

Join us for our FREE back to school event welcome to all Apache Junction students. Come get your school supplies while they last! Hosted again by AJUSD & AJHS

Have questions, want to donate school supplies, or have a booth at the event? Message us through social media or contact us at [email protected]

Parents/ Guardians: Kratom is often marketed as a natural herbal product, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. It can have mind-altering effects, may lead to dependence, and some products have been found to contain unknown or unsafe ingredients.

🤔 Staying informed and having open conversations with your teen can help them make safer choices. Learn more, ask questions, and keep the conversation going.

: Checking In on Dad

Today is Father's Day, and while we celebrate the dads, grandpas, stepdads, father figures, and mentors in our lives, it's also a good reminder that men's mental health matters.

Many men grow up hearing messages like "be strong," "push through it," or "don't talk about your feelings." But taking care of your mental health isn't a sign of weakness. It's part of staying healthy, just like eating well, getting enough sleep, and taking care of your body.

This Father's Day, self-care can look like:
💙 Taking a break without feeling guilty
💙 Talking with someone you trust
💙 Spending time doing something you enjoy
💙 Asking for help when you need it
💙 Checking in with a friend, brother, dad, or mentor

If you're celebrating a father figure today, consider asking a simple question: "How are you really doing?" Sometimes meaningful conversations start with a genuine check-in.

Journal Prompt
What is one thing I need more of right now: rest, connection, support, or time for myself?

Taking care of yourself helps you show up for the people who matter most. 💙

Doing something as simple as chatting with your kids can help build their resiliency one day at a time.

🗣Here are some conversation starters in case you are stuck on repeat of only asking "how was your day"

Fear of being judged and/or discriminated against can prevent people from getting the help they need. Remember the words you say and how you say them matter. Use affirmative language to inspire hope and recovery.

🤔Did You Know...

Teens who begin using alcohol before age 15, are 3.5 times more likely to develop an alcohol use disorder.

🗣Start talking to your kids early and often. Look for opportunities to discuss the harms of alcohol use and be aware of drinking trends among youth. When young people drink, they drink a lot at one time. This is called binge drinking, a very dangerous way of drinking that can lead to serious problems and even death.

Check out this alcohol talk kit if you need some guidance on how to approach this conversation with the youth in your care: https://buff.ly/46zJc9a