At Santa Barbara High School and San Marcos High School, ALLY After-School groups inspire personal growth through a fun, interactive curriculum. Through discussions, activities, and social-emotional/life skill building, teens practice approaching differences in opinion with curiosity and empathy, exploring their shared humanity, and learning valuable skills for giving and receiving support. As allies and members of a loving and strong group culture, they are empowered to play essential roles in building a safer, more welcoming campus. 

Participants learn skills via Connection Circle leadership training and practice both within the group and in other spaces across campus, which may include other classrooms, roving lunchtime circles, and faculty/staff meetings. SEL skills learned and practiced prepare students with highly valued skills for college and the world of work. ALLY students are invited to participate in two AHA! community-wide teen conferences each school year. They earn community service hours or can apply for a paid stipend.

To inquire about the ALLY Program, contact AHA! Enrollment Operations Specialist Paulina Romero (bilingual) at paulina@ahasb.org.