Thunderbirds Charities has awarded a $30,000 grant to BLOOM365 to support its Root It Out program, a critical violence intervention initiative for students in Ombudsman Charter Schools. This funding will help BLOOM365 continue to provide essential healthy relationship education, behavioral health support, and counseling to young people at risk of perpetrating violence.
The Root It Out program addresses the root causes of violence through several key strategies: in-class curriculum, individual support, counseling, and peer-to-peer programs that promote empathy and respect.
“This grant is a powerful investment in the future of our community,” said Donna Bartos, CEO of BLOOM365. “It allows us to empower students with the tools to build healthier relationships and lives. The impact is clear in the voices of the students and their families.”
A parent of a teen who participated in the program shared her gratitude: “I’ve seen my daughter improve so much. She has been great in communicating her needs without arguing. She has also gone from no days in school to five days. She has a smile on her face now, and it makes me happy.”
During the 2024-2025 school year, the program delivered over 1,700 sessions to 90 students. Data shows significant positive outcomes: 82% of students reported learning new coping skills, 86% felt more confident in their self-control, and 83% noticed a positive change in their behavior. This grant will help BLOOM365 continue its vital work in creating safer, more supportive school environments.
This grant is part of the Fall 2024 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.