Once Upon Our Time Capsule transforms the traditional time capsule into a powerful tool for youth connection and reflection. We unite students across classrooms and communities to create collective time capsules, preserving today's voices for tomorrow. By reflecting on, documenting, and sharing stories for the time capsule, participants build their sense of identity and belonging - vital to both personal and community well-being.
How it works
Every June, we launch a new annual Youth Time Capsule (our digital platform for youth stories) and a supporting arts-infused curriculum to engage youth in reflection and dialog.
In schools, after school programs, homeless shelters, and more, youth contribute artifacts into the platform capturing their meaningful moments, experiences, and perspectives, and explore submissions from peers.
At the end of the school year in May, the annual Youth Time Capsule is closed for 10 years. With each new Youth Time Capsule, we are working toward building the largest digital record of youth stories.
Once Upon addresses the urgent youth mental health crisis, where self-confidence is plummeting, and anxiety, depression, and loneliness are on the rise. Particularly vulnerable groups—including females, LGBTQ+ youth, and youth of color—report higher distress and lower school connectedness.
At the core of this crisis is a sense of disconnection and lack of belonging. Research shows that fostering self-worth and community connection is key to building resilience. We meets this need through an arts-based approach that empowers youth to express themselves, share their stories, and find joy amid adversity.
OUR CALL TO ACTION
impact WE SEEK TO MAKE
By reimagining the time capsule for today's youth, we invite them to explore their past, understand the present, and dream about the future. Our time capsule is digital, providing an updated take on an old tradition. Supported by a dynamic curriculum which can be deployed in a variety of settings, we encourage kids to share their unique stories with each other and the world.
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Through the process of contributing to the Youth Time Capsule, youth reflect on their personal growth and achievements, their values, and their communities. They articulate their experiences, perspectives, and dreams through writing, art, and digital media. Along the way, they build their sense of self-worth.
Research consistently shows that individuals with higher levels of self-worth are more resilient to stress, less likely to develop mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and more likely to engage in healthy behaviors.
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Social belonging is a universal need. Research shows that when children feel socially connected to and accepted by others, they experience better physical and mental well-being and they even perform better in school. Once Upon Our Time Capsule fosters a sense of belonging by valuing diversity, encouraging connection, and empowering youth to be their authentic selves within the community.
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Once Upon Our Time Capsule promotes empathy by providing a needed platform for sharing, listening, and learning from diverse - and personal - stories and experiences. Ultimately, this fosters a greater sense of understanding and compassion among participants, and builds stronger communities.
OUR Partners
We work partner with schools, after school programs, and government agencies to bring our programming to youth in a variety of settings.
Past and Current Institutional Support
WHAT Teachers ARE SAYING
“Students need more opportunities to use their imagination and to connect socially without the use of electronics. The program provides a space for students to do just that-- to be kids.”
Anonymous Survey, public school teacher
“Our youth benefited so much. It really gave them a chance to reflect on their own identity, their own culture, and what makes them special and unique. What was really amazing was that they got to share that side of themselves with their peers and with their class.”
Anonymous Survey, youth organization
“Through their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to inclusivity, Once Upon has created a space where every child feels valued, heard, and empowered. Their dedication to promoting equitable opportunities for connection and personal development aligns closely with our organization’s core values.”
Anonymous Survey, youth organization
