Introduction
At American High School Skopje (AHSS), learning it’s about shaping compassionate, socially responsible individuals who engage with the world around them. By partnering with the Red Cross, students engage in meaningful projects that foster empathy, social responsibility, and leadership skills. From tutoring programs to psychological aid training, these initiatives help young individuals develop a deeper understanding of humanitarian efforts while directly impacting their communities.
Volunteering for Educational Support
Two dedicated AHSS students took part in the Red Cross Integration Program, where they provided academic assistance in Macedonian language and literature and mathematics to students in need.
- This support was offered on weekends from November to December and will resume in March until the end of the academic year.
- Before starting, both volunteers attended a training session with a psychologist from AHSS and the Red Cross, ensuring they had the right approach when supporting their peers.
- The program emphasizes mentorship and inclusion, helping struggling students feel more confident in their studies while fostering a sense of community and belonging.
First Psychological Aid Training
On December 17, 2024, first-year students participated in a First Psychological Aid Training organized by the Red Cross. This workshop introduced them to key principles in recognizing and addressing psychological distress.
- Students learned how to identify signs of crisis, offer emotional support, and apply the “Look, Listen, Connect” method.
- Though they didn’t receive formal certification, they gained essential life skills that can help them support others.
- The session also covered the importance of self-care, helping students recognize when they need to seek help themselves.
Cultural Mediation and Inclusion
Cultural diversity is a strength, and AHSS students took part in a specialized online training program on December 19-20, 2024, focusing on intercultural competencies.
- Participants explored how cultural identity influences perspectives and learned about religious, linguistic, and traditional differences.
- They acquired skills in identifying and addressing ethnocentric biases and effectively communicating across cultures.
- All nine participants received certification, equipping them with the knowledge needed to promote inclusion and diversity in society.
Promotion of Humanitarian Values (PHV Program)
A cycle of three training sessions under the PHV Program kicked off on February 11, 2025. This initiative helps young volunteers gain experience in identifying community needs and organizing projects to support vulnerable populations.
- The training took place on February 11, February 17, and February 21, 2025, with seven AHSS students from different grades participating.
- Their first hands-on project will be creating and selling handmade Martinki on February 27, 2025 to raise funds for humanitarian causes.
- Through PHV, students learn practical project management skills while making a real-world impact.
The Impact of These Initiatives
Through their work with the Red Cross, AHSS students are:
- Developing a strong sense of social responsibility and empathy.
- Gaining valuable life skills in crisis management, education, and intercultural communication.
- Strengthening community bonds by actively engaging with people from different backgrounds.
- Preparing for future leadership roles with hands-on experience in volunteerism and project management.
Conclusion
The partnership between AHSS and the Red Cross is shaping students into thoughtful, socially conscious individuals. These initiatives not only provide practical skills but also inspire students to make a difference in their communities. As more young people get involved, the ripple effect of humanitarian work will continue to spread, fostering a kinder, more inclusive society.
