Welcome to Stand By Me!

Stand By Me is back after a fantastic reboot in May of 2024! This day-long conference of workshops for 7th grade students and their parents/guardians focuses on helping them navigate the journey to adulthood. For 30 years, this positive and popular program served the 7th grade students of Bedford until the COVID-19 pandemic put it on pause for three years, causing a break in volunteers and knowledge about the event. Thankfully, due to the dedication of Lurgio staff and community volunteers, we are back on track for another 30 years!

ABOUT STAND BY ME

Stand By Me is a unique program here in Bedford, designed specifically for 7th grade students and their parents or guardians. It offers a meaningful opportunity to spend time together, improve communication, and better understand each other while tackling the typical challenges faced by young teens.

The program began in 1989 when two Bedford parents, inspired by Merrimack’s “Project Safeguard,” collaborated with school staff to create something similar for our community. By May 1990, the first Stand By Me event was held, and it’s been a cherished tradition ever since.

Our mission is simple but impactful: to equip young teens and their families with the skills and tools to communicate better, build trust, and strengthen self-esteem. By addressing key issues faced by today’s families, we aim to foster healthier relationships and greater resilience. We achieve this through interactive workshops led by top-notch professionals—psychologists, educators, and other experts from across New England.