Why I do what I do – Kalli McClure, WRAP Specialist

While training to become a Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor, I heard about an acronym they use in Hawaii -- “MAMA” = meaningful adult, meaningful activity. Among other protective factors, a youth having at least one meaningful adult and meaningful activity in their lives greatly increases their resiliency.

Growing up, I had many meaningful adults and meaningful activities supporting the development of who I am today. A time that these MAMAs were especially helpful was when my friend and softball teammate unexpectedly died at a tournament when we were 13 years old. I remember feeling so grateful for the love and compassion I received from my parents, coaches, grief counselors, friends and their parents, and what seemed like the entire community of Lawrence. I’m still grateful.

In my role as the WRAP therapist for Bishop Seabury Academy as well as the Juvenile Detention Center, I am available to help with the behavioral, emotional, familial and psychological problems that students can have. WRAP removes the barriers that might cause these youths to otherwise not be able to come in for services at Bert Nash.

People are often flabbergasted when I tell them the two schools I work at, and I’ll admit they are two extremely different systems. But these are two systems where protective factors are especially important. Regardless of learning environment, these students are struggling with the same issues — symptoms of  depression and anxiety, family and peer conflict, grief and loss, suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-harming behaviors, and exploration of identity.

It’s hard being a teenager on a good day, and that’s why I knew I wanted to work with this population. I’m so grateful I get to be their meaningful adult.