Now that schools are back in session, it is time for the JAYC groups to begin. Last year the program was presented at the Sonoma Charter School. The Foundation is currently sponsoring the program for the fourth grade at an elementary School in Napa, California. The groups provide the students with opportunities to connect and to learn new possibilities of connecting with each other. We are combining learning and fun through interactive games using our vocabulary words: Connection, Caring, Respect, Safety, Awareness, Attunement, Instincts, Trust, Creativity, Support, and Compassion. The motto for the groups: “I promise to live with integrity, to have compassion for all living things, to be aware of my surroundings, and just ask myself to care”. 
The larger goal is to create a lasting bond in our schools that transcends grade level, diverse economic and cultural backgrounds, and various learning disabilities that inadvertently keep students distant, rather than close; separate, rather than bonded. We support the development of empathy rather than taking the stance that we are combating negative attitudes such as bullying and lack of awareness. Part of the concept is to create ambassadors for future school groups.
Keep an eye out, as we will be posting information about future trainings that will enable JAYC groups to be offered in other areas. In Indiana, staff from Strides to Success and in North Carolina staff from Horse Sense of the Carolinas have received training. We hope they will be able to take this program into their schools soon.