ThriveWay Empowers Students to Stand Up Against Bullying

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 2026

Bullying prevention takes more than recognizing harmful behavior. It requires creating school environments where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to stand up for themselves and others. During National Bullying Prevention Month, ThriveWay is highlighting the important role students can play in building a culture of kindness, respect, and connection.

Through its Peer Helpers PLUS program, ThriveWay partners with schools to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support their peers, recognize concerning behaviors, and make a positive difference in their school communities.

“Students have a tremendous influence on the culture of their schools, and we want to help them use that influence for good,” said Allison Moore, Co-Founder and President of ThriveWay. “Bullying prevention isn't just about teaching students what not to do. It's about showing them what they can do to make others feel welcome, supported, and valued.”

Bullying can take many forms, including physical intimidation, verbal harassment, social exclusion, spreading rumors, and cyberbullying. Its effects can reach beyond the immediate incident, impacting a student's emotional well-being, academic engagement, and connection to school.

Changing the Culture, One Student at a Time

Recognizing that students often turn to one another for connection and support, Peer Helpers PLUS provides structured prevention education and opportunities for student leadership that encourage positive peer influence.

The program teaches students to recognize the impact of their words and actions, practice empathy, build healthy relationships, and seek help from trusted adults when situations require intervention.

Sometimes, making a difference is as simple as inviting someone to join a group, offering encouragement to a classmate, or speaking up when someone is being mistreated. These everyday actions can help create school environments where kindness and respect become part of the culture.

While October brings increased attention to bullying prevention, ThriveWay emphasizes that these efforts must continue throughout the school year. Through age-appropriate lessons, student-led activities, and acts of service, Peer Helpers PLUS helps schools reinforce positive behaviors and strengthen connections among students.

By empowering students to become part of the solution, ThriveWay is helping schools move beyond bullying awareness and toward meaningful, everyday action.