On April 9th, Inner Strength Education had the joy of participating in Get Ready, Get Set, Let’s Go—a community engagement event hosted by CADEkids and PLA-North in North Philadelphia. Held at 4224 N. Front Street, this vibrant gathering was designed to connect young people with essential resources around mental health, wellness, recreation, and employment.

We were invited to host a resource table, offer wellness activities, and most importantly—be present for the community. The energy was tangible. Youth from across the city filled the space with curiosity, courage, and a real desire to connect with programs that could support their growth.

At our table, we shared a variety of wellness tools, colorful handouts, stickers (because healing can be fun), and self-regulation resources tailored to both youth and adults. Our QR codes led attendees directly to our digital toolkits—because accessibility matters, and sometimes the right resource needs to be just a click away.

One of the most powerful moments came not from any speech or activity—but from a student’s name tag. Written beneath their name was a simple sticker:
“YOU MATTER.”
That single phrase captured everything we hope to convey in our work.

This event reminded us that community engagement is sacred work. It’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing up with presence. With listening ears, open hands, and offerings made from care. It’s about giving young people a reason to feel seen—and tools they can carry with them beyond the walls of a gymnasium.

We’re grateful to CADEkids and PLA-North for the invitation and for creating space where possibility thrives.