To help further our mission of ensuring that future generations are no longer influenced by hatred and bigotry or prejudice and discrimination, we are dedicated to helping students learn about and appreciate the value of tolerance, inclusion and diversity. Recognizing that a safe and inclusive learning environment is needed for this to take place, we also embrace programs which specifically address the social and emotional needs of students and enable them to build understanding, respect and trust for themselves and others.
Rather than create additional programs and activities that address the issues we are passionate about, Imagine Tolerance seeks to utilize the most effective and proven research-based educational and experiential programs and activities which are currently being offered through other organizations and make them available to as many students as possible.
We draw upon our research of, and experience with, numerous organizations that have developed and provided programs, activities, curricula, films, and speakers to students with verifiable success over the years. Examples of such organizations are:
- Southern Poverty Law Center
- Facing History and Ourselves
- Challenge Day
- Anti-Defamation League
- Museum of Tolerance
- United States Holocaust Museum
Topics covered by such programs include:
- Bullying/cyber-bullying
- Teen depression, anxiety/stress, and suicide
- Substance abuse
- Self-esteem, self-confidence
- Peer pressure
- Conflict resolution
- Understanding differences and embracing racial, religious, gender, socio-economic (income, education and occupation), sexual orientation, ethnic and cultural diversity, as well as people with disabilities
- Exploring stereotypes, causes of prejudice and discrimination, scapegoating, and “herd mentality” (examining historical and current examples)
- Mutual respect and empathy
- Reaching out to others and supporting those in need
- Responsibilities of citizenship
- Value of education
- Value of civic engagement