Directing Change empowers California youth through creative outlets



Win prizes for learning about mental health and suicide prevention!

The Directing Change Program holds film and art contests for young people to learn about the topics of suicide prevention, mental health, social justice and more. By creating short films, written works, and art projects youth can communicate positive messages to peers and adults in their community to inspire them to take action… and win cash prizes and gift cards!

• Annual Film Contest (entries are due March 1 every year). Multiple submission categories for 30-second and 60-second films focused on mental health and suicide prevention topics. Win up to $1000 in cash prizes and be recognized at a statewide red carpet award ceremony! Learn more 

• Monthly Hope and Justice Art and Film Contest (entries accepted on a monthly basis and are due the last day of the month at midnight). Art, written works, films and original music accepted! You can submit to the Hope or Justice theme every month, or to the monthly prompt that changes each month. Win up to $300 in Amazon gift cards! Learn more 

In addition to film and art contests, the Directing Change program provides curriculums and trainings to educators and school administrators to impact school climates, facilitates parent workshops, and offers free resources for youth.

One such resource is the Mental Health Thrival Kit. Available for free — in English and Spanish — the kit can be used to celebrate wellness and promote positive coping skills for youth with easy-to-follow activities to enhance basic skills for social emotional wellness. This kit includes a notebook, pen, sticker sheets, and a bookmark. The journal is filled with prompts, grounding and breathing techniques, and crisis resources for youth. If you’re interested in ordering free physical copies (in English and Spanish), please fill out the form.

You can also download free digital copies here:
English
Spanish

For more information about the Directing Change Program please visit www.directingchangeca.org