by mike@upandrunningdesign.net | Jun 4, 2026 | See Their Strength
What We Mean When We Say Belonging By Melanie Heitkamp, LCSW Before we talk about programs, strategies, or outcomes, it’s worth starting with something simpler—what youth actually say. “Youthworks is like a second family to me” “I’m comfortable here. Mi Familia.”... by mike@upandrunningdesign.net | May 2, 2026 | See Their Strength
What We Call Behavior By Melanie Heitkamp, LCSW What We See He comes into the house and you can feel it before he even says a word. The door shuts harder than it needs to. His shoes are kicked off in the middle of the entryway. His backpack hits the floor and... by mike@upandrunningdesign.net | Apr 2, 2026 | See Their Strength
They Need Our Protection, Too By Melanie Heitkamp, LCSW April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. When we talk about child abuse, the focus is almost always on young children—and for good reason. The data is clear. Infants and very young children are the most... by mike@upandrunningdesign.net | Mar 2, 2026 | See Their Strength
“Why Did They Lie to Me?” – Understanding Youth, Truth, and Trust By Melanie Heitkamp, LCSW | Executive Director Emeritus, Youthworks A Note to Parents One of the most heart-wrenching questions parents ask me is:“Why did they lie to me?” It stings. Especially when... by mike@upandrunningdesign.net | Feb 2, 2026 | See Their Strength
Showing Up with Kindness By Melanie Heitkamp, LCSW Some of the most powerful moments I’ve witnessed in my 40+ years working with youth didn’t happen in therapy offices or courtrooms. They happened in school hallways, park benches, and quiet corners of drop-in...