Free to Be

We celebrated our graduating teens innovators who we’ve watched grow, lead, and leave their mark in ways that will stay with us forever. Your voices, your courage, and your hearts have shaped this community into something truly special.
Thank you for everything you’ve given, and for the legacy you leave behind. We’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see where your next chapter takes you. 🩵



Teen Innovator Claudia spoke to the 5th graders at Geyserville Elementary today! She spoke about the Friendship Staircase and how friendships can grow and change😊

BLOOM was a success!🌸

From the laughter that echoed through every activity to the quiet moments of reflection that helped us learn more about ourselves, this weekend was everything we hoped for and more. None of this would have been possible without Reese and Kaylin, who poured their hearts into every detail. Their vision, planning, and genuine love for creating a safe, joyful, empowering space made this retreat a complete success. They’re walking away so proud of what came to life and so grateful for every girl who showed up with an open heart💗

Do our teens make a difference in the classroom? Absolutely. 💛

Today, Rocco, Max, and Mac joined us at Bellevue Elementary, where they helped 5th graders practice skits around peer pressure. Watching our teens lead, encourage, and support was powerful—but one moment really stood out.

During a skit, one student bravely stood up to participate, and their teacher shared how proud they were because this student is usually very shy and would never volunteer for something like this. 🥹

That’s the power of peer-to-peer connection. That’s the ripple effect of teens showing up for younger students.

Well done, teens. You’re making a real impact. 👏✨

One of our Teens, Zac, encouraging 5th grade students to use kindness.
“It’s easy to be mean on a screen, but kindness is cool!”

Free to Be had the privilege of partnering with Santa Rosa’s Neighborhood Services Division at Comstock Middle School. Students took time to reflect on the qualities that matter most in friendships.
Their words—trust, kindness, communication—show just how deeply they’re thinking about building healthy relationships.
We’re proud to support them as they grow into thoughtful, connected young people.

Save the date✨ Join us on November 14, 2026 at Vinarosa Resort and Spa as we come together for an unforgettable evening!

Having the best time with the 6th graders at Strawberry Elementary as they get ready for middle school. We’re helping them build confidence, strengthen healthy friendships, and navigate social media with safety and intention.

And the highlight every time: our amazing Teens sharing their own stories. Their honesty and leadership make these presentations truly unforgettable!

Free to Be had the incredible opportunity to partner with Pony Express, a fellow Sonoma County nonprofit, for a powerful leadership training with their horses. Our teens stepped into the arena, learned to communicate with clarity and confidence, and discovered new ways to lead with empathy, presence, and trust.

They’re taking these lessons back into the classroom and far beyond. So much growth, so much courage, and so much gratitude for this unforgettable day. 🤍🐴

This little gift made its way from Free to Be to a Christmas tree.🎄

Thank you to everyone who gave, shared, and celebrated with us this season. You made Free to Be brighter in more ways than one. ✨