Nest Nationwide Programming

As communities across the country grapple with increasing division, Nest continues to invest in one of the most powerful tools for prevention and connection: helping young people learn how to listen.

This summer, youth in Dallas are participating in the first Human Voices cohort, conducting interviews with people whose experiences, perspectives, and life stories they may not otherwise encounter. Through these conversations, young people are practicing curiosity, challenging assumptions, and documenting the humanity that exists beyond labels and stereotypes. Their work will culminate in a public screening scheduled for September 2026, where community members will have the opportunity to engage with the stories they have captured.

We are also excited to launch a yearlong Human Voices apprenticeship partnership with Caldera in Oregon during the 2026-2027 school year. Youth apprentices will spend the year developing interviewing, storytelling, and filmmaking skills while documenting stories from across their communities. The project will culminate in public screenings in Portland and Bend in March 2027, creating opportunities for dialogue, reflection, and connection across lines of difference.

At the same time, Nest continues to expand its prevention and education work in schools and youth-serving organizations nationwide. During the past several months, our violence and abuse prevention curriculum has continued reaching young people through partnerships with Los Angeles Unified School District, Portland Public Schools, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hamilton Ohio, San Antonio Independent School District, Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District, North Colonie Central School District in Albany, and New Hanover County Schools in North Carolina.

Across these communities, young people are building practical skills that help prevent harm before it occurs: recognizing unhealthy behaviors, setting boundaries, seeking help when needed, supporting peers, strengthening emotional wellness, and creating healthier relationships with the people around them.

While these programs may look different on the surface, they share a common goal. Whether a young person is learning to recognize abuse, developing healthy relationship skills, or conducting an interview with someone whose life experience differs from their own, they are practicing the same essential human capacities: empathy, critical thinking, communication, and connection.

We believe prevention begins long before a crisis. It begins when young people feel seen, valued, and connected to one another. It begins when communities create space for difficult conversations. And it grows when we choose curiosity over assumption and understanding over fear.

Thank you for making this work possible. Your support helps young people develop the skills they need not only to prevent harm, but to build stronger, safer, and more connected communities for everyone.