Health & Wellness
Supporting Youth and Communities to Rise, Heal, and Thrive
Many young people face constant stress, limited access to peaceful environments, and few opportunities to explore practices that support emotional and physical health. UFSI works to lift youth UP by creating spaces that encourage self-care, connection, and personal growth. Through movement, mindfulness, conversation, and community support, participants learn how to manage stress, build resilience, and care for their whole selves. When wellness becomes a shared priority, families and communities become stronger, healthier, and better equipped to support the next generation.
Health & Wellness at UFSI
Up From Slavery Initiative is focused on helping youth and families rise above the barriers that hold them back. These barriers often come from stress, trauma, health disparities, or a lack of support.
Our roots are in uplifting youth in our community. Today, our wellness programs are open to all youth and allies who are seeking healing, connection, and leadership development.
Wellness is not just an individual journey. It's a community pathway UPward.
Removing Stigma. Creating Support. Building UPward.
Youth today face enormous pressures including anxiety, depression, identity challenges, academic expectations, and social stress. Many do not have safe spaces to talk about their mental health or learn tools to navigate life.
UFSI is changing that by offering:
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Healing-centered youth programs
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Culturally informed resources
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Wellness experiences that build confidence and resilience
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Spaces where young people can advocate for their needs
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Community events that normalize mental and emotional well-being
Our simple goal is:
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Help young people rise UP toward healthier futures.
Wellness Retreats & Mindfulness Events
Youth and Adults Come Together to Experience:
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Meditation and quiet reflection
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Qigong and movement practices
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Nature walks that restore the mind and body
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Sound healing and mindfulness education
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Leadership conversations that build emotional strength
These retreats create space to breathe, reflect, and reset, especially for youth who rarely get access to peaceful environments. They offer a chance to slow down, connect with themselves, and build emotional strength in a supportive setting.
Men’s Wellness Events
Our men’s wellness activities help young men and mentors
build brotherhood, confidence, and personal growth. These
programs create structured time for connection, physical
activity, and conversations that support emotional well-being.
They also introduce positive role models, encourage healthy
decision-making, and give participants practical tools for
handling stress, relationships, and leadership responsibilities
within their families and communities.
Events often include:
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Sports & physical activity
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Friendly competitions
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Leadership discussions
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Mental health awareness
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Bonding through fun, culture, and movement
Women Wellness & Leadership
UFSI hosts events focused on emotional healing,
confidence, identity, and empowerment for
women that are designed to address real challenges
they face in their daily lives and to support their
growth as leaders within their families, schools,
and communities.
Participants learn:
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Strategies for emotional well-being
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Leadership and communication skills
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Trauma-informed healing practices
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What it means to rise UP and thrive in community
Partnerships That Lift Youth UP
Our partners help bring resources to young
people and families across Kitsap County
and beyond. Their support allows us to offer
wellness programs that include mental health
education, leadership development, movement
practices, and community building activities.
These partnerships also expand access to safe
environments, culturally responsive guidance,
and opportunities that many youth would not
otherwise receive. Together, we are able to
strengthen families, uplift communities, and
reach a wider network of individuals who
benefit from consistent and coordinated
wellness support.
Partners include:
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Schools
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Community organizations
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Mental health professionals
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Youth empowerment groups
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Local nonprofits and foundations
Together, we are creating pathways
for youth to grow UPward with
confidence, support, and community.
Partner UP with UFSI
Rising UP Through Wellness
Up From Slavery Initiative believes that when individuals heal, families strengthen, and when families strengthen, communities transform. Our wellness programs honor tradition, support resilience, and build pathways to a healthier future for generations to come.