Echo Springs Transition Study Center
Bonners Ferry, ID

---

Echo Springs Focus On Safe Zone

In late October, Echo Springs hosted officials from the University of Idaho Human Rights office and the LGBT office to conduct a Safe Zone training for the entire faculty. The training was about how to facilitate and be aware of a more inclusive environment that is safe for all minority populations as well as how to become an ally to marginalized groups and individuals. The exercises, presentation and question and answer times were very moving. Several faculty commented that the training was "awesome".

Safe Zone trainings are increasingly common at American universities, but this is one of the first instances of a young adult program taking the time to have such a training conducted. Faculty are confident that the training enhances the ability to support LGBT youth and other minorities.

Echo Springs Study Transition Center is a post-graduate program 18 to 24 year old men and women looking for new direction. They are typically doubtful of their abilities and talents and are often stuck in self-sabotaging patterns of isolation, fearful, hungry for safety and success, confused, challenging, show evidence of the ability to practice the skills and behaviors that lead them to independence and clearer identity, and are ready and willing to grow up. They have also made a decision to make a change in their lives.