Projects

Here's a recap of some of the

events and projects we hosted from 2021-2022

IUSD Self-Defense Workshop

On April 17th, 2021 we held our first in-person event at University High School Stadium led by an active Brziam JiuJisu instructor, Warren Wang. During the event, students were able to learn basic concepts of self-defense some examples were technical stand up, the punch from mount position, how to get out of a headlock, and how to guard and block defense. Many students learned situations and ways to escape from predators, which can be very useful for High Schoolers and seniors going into college who will be living by themselves next year.

Human Options Donation Drive

Our first donation drive was held on July 5th and 10th from 4 to 5 pm at University Park Library. We asked our volunteers to donate items and cards for OC, Human Options. Human Options has helped the lives of more than 38,000 individuals impacted by domestic violence. They provide a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, housing, counseling, educational programs, and support services for anyone in need. We were able to collect 57 items including, kitchen items, small apliances, school supplies, household cleaning items, and toys. As well as cards for the sheltered families and children with encouraging messages.

Laura's House Bracelet Making

On September 4th from 4 to 6 pm at the Heritage Park, we were able to make 70 packets of bracelets and cards with inspiring messages and notes. The bracelets were donated to Laura's House, a domestic violence shelter in Orange County. They've helped provide services to the 915,000 residents in Orange Country and helped more than 5,000 abused women, men, and children. They also provide a 24/7 hour hotline, counseling, life skill educations, workshops, and legal services for thousands of people.

Festival of Hearts

On September 19th, 2021, we were invited by SAVS WaymakersOC to lead a workshop on student activism at their annual event for youth, called Festival of Hearts. In our workshop, "Student Activism Starter Pack," we went in-depth into the process and journey of starting a club. Topics covered in this workshop included public outreach, incentivization, dealing with failure, organizational tips, and everything else to know about starting your own initiative. We were the first youth speakers to have presented at their event!

Laura's House Baked Goods

On September 30th, we had our second partnership event with Laura's House in which we helped bake goods for their open house event. We were able to make 3 different kinds of baked goods cookies, brownies, and banana muffins. Laura's House not only supports the community but helps give survivors a safe place to go. We loved working with them and will continue donating. We love helping organizations like theirs and benefiting others who need a little support.

2nd Self-Defense Workshop

On 10/16, we hosted our second Self-defense Workshop with our guest instructor, Mandi Pratt, who is a Self Defense Teacher, Speaker, Author, and Advocate of women's safety. We learned many key concepts such as forming boundaries, using our voices and bodies to protect ourselves from harm, and using self-defense tools appropriately. Our members practiced with Practice Sprays instead of real pepper sprays for safety purposes, and everyone learned a lot!

Laura's House Donation Center

Over winter break, we volunteered for three shifts at the Laura's House Donation Center in Aliso Viejo. Our volunteers sorted clothes, organized an array of donations, and placed items on racks ready to be sold. This was the third campaign we did to complete the Junior Friend's Program!

YAT Winter Camp Guest Speaking

We were invited to speak at the 2021 YAT Winter Camp to talk about youth leadership for social good! Thank you to YAT for having us there.

Spring Care Packages for HumanOptions

On April 16th, 2022, the day before Easter, IUSDWRA members came together and assembled Spring care packages for families at Human Options. We wrapped water bottles for adults and filled bags with goodies (crayons, chalk, paint kits, candy, sticker books) for children, and each package came with a hand-drawn card! Care package supplies were funded by the 2021-2022 IPV grant from CalOES.

Denim Drive for Laura's House

Throughout the month of April, we were invited by Laura's House to run a denim donation drive for their Resale Store. Laura's House uses earnings from the Resale Store to fund victim support programs and services. We collaborated with Irvine's YAT and collected generous donations from all five IUSD high schools!