Visionary Investors Advance Mindful Studies in High Schools
$2 Million and Counting for Teen Wellbeing
It started in May 2023 with a few conversations with leading Peace in Schools contributors. Compelled by the urgency of the teen mental health crisis, donors sought to multiply the reach of Peace in Schools’ life-saving Mindful Studies class.
“There has never been a more important time to have mindfulness taught in high schools,” says Greg Hammer, MD. “With social media, eco-anxiety, the political divide, and aftershocks from the pandemic - teenagers need Peace in Schools more than ever. I am thrilled to be a Visionary Investor.”
To date, 12 additional Peace in Schools supporters have become Visionary Investors, combining for a total of more than $2.2 million.
“It’s inspiring to see such significant support for teen wellbeing” says Peace in Schools Executive Director Janice Martellucci. “Our visionary investors really understand the power of deep mindfulness practice. These are game changing donations that open up possibilities for Mindful Studies in new regions across the country.”
Every Visionary Investor has pledged $25,000 or more over a period of up to five years to expand access to Mindful Studies. The top supporter, who prefers to remain anonymous, has pledged $1 million to Peace in Schools.
“Our Visionary Investors Founders Drive goal is to meet or exceed $4 million by the end of 2026,” says Janice. “We know it will take major financial support for this vision to come to fruition, and thanks to these early Visionary Investors we’re off to an amazing start.”
Visionary Investors are supporting Peace in Schools as the non-profit pilots the Mindful Studies Partnership Program. If successful, this new program aims to bring the for-credit Mindful Studies class to new regions across the country. Over a three year partnership, Peace in Schools works with high schools to implement the course and infuse mindfulness into the culture of the entire school community. Seven high schools in California and Oregon are participating in the pilot and last month ten educators began the first-ever Mindful Studies teacher training.
Starting in the fall, in addition to continuing the ten-year partnership with Portland Public Schools, hundreds more students in new communities will receive the transformative tools of Mindful Studies as part of their high school education.
More information about the Visionary Investors Circle can be found at peaceinschools.org/visionary-investors-circle, including a list of early supporters.
To discuss becoming a Peace in Schools Visionary Investor, contact Janice Martellucci, Executive Director