Unlikely Collaborators Expand Partnership with Holistic Life Foundation for Mindfulness Practices in Schools

Unlikely Collaborators and Holistic Life Foundation: A New Era of Mindfulness in Education

In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing mental health and well-being among students, Unlikely Collaborators has elevated its partnership with the Holistic Life Foundation (HLF), a prominent nonprofit organization based in Baltimore. This partnership focuses on expanding the Mindful Moment Program, which introduces trauma-informed mindfulness and yoga practices into schools across Milwaukee, Chicago, and Denver.

The Holistic Life Foundation and Its Impact

Founded in 2001 by Ali Smith, Atman Smith, and Andres González, the Holistic Life Foundation has been a beacon of hope for over two decades, reaching more than 200,000 individuals nationwide through its innovative programs. The organization emphasizes yoga and mindfulness as vital tools for emotional regulation, stress reduction, and holistic well-being. The Mindful Moment Program is a proven initiative that integrates mindfulness techniques into the school day, thereby improving students’ mental health and creating a positive educational environment.

Currently, this program has already reached over 100 schools, providing safe spaces for children and educators alike to manage emotions and reduce conflicts. With the recent funding by Unlikely Collaborators, the Holistic Life Foundation aims to expand its positive influence even further, with aspirations to empower countless more students and educators.

The Mindful Moment Program's Success

Reports from schools that have implemented the Mindful Moment Program reveal astonishing outcomes. Approximately 99% of participants have noted a positive experience, highlighting reductions in anger, stress, confusion, and sadness. Notably, schools have experienced a dramatic 72% decrease in suspension rates and a significant 76% increase in students reporting a sense of calmness.

Moreover, participation in the program is correlated with improvements in attendance and academic performance, showcasing its multifaceted benefits. Students are developing skills in empathy and compassion while also healing from both personal and intergenerational trauma, making this initiative a crucial aspect of educational reform.

Upcoming Certification Retreat in Los Angeles

To further cultivate mindfulness practices within the community, Unlikely Collaborators is hosting the Holistic Life Foundation's Trauma-Informed Yoga and Mindfulness Certification Retreat in Los Angeles on October 24–26, 2025. This immersive three-day event is an integral part of a year-long certification designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to foster healing and resilience in their respective communities.

Participants will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that covers trauma-informed practices, yoga, meditation, and even the physiological aspects of trauma. Monthly online modules will precede the retreat, along with live sessions and ongoing mentorship, all geared toward creating safe, restorative environments in schools and communities.

A Legacy of Recognition and Support

The recognition of the Holistic Life Foundation's success is reflected in its extensive media coverage and accolades, including features on platforms like BBC, CNN, and Oprah Magazine. Its commitment to improving mental health frameworks has had a lasting national impact, making it a key contributor to the momentum of trauma-informed practices in school systems across the United States.

Unlikely Collaborators, led by Founder Elizabeth R. Koch, is equally committed to this mission. The organization supports initiatives that promote transformative storytelling and human connections, aiming to resolve internal and external conflicts through its unique Perception Box™ framework. This method challenges individuals to confront their biases and narratives, fostering a more sympathetic and creative approach towards understanding the diverse perspectives around them.

Looking Ahead

As the Holistic Life Foundation continues to break barriers within educational settings, Ali Smith emphasizes the partnership's alignment in expanding access to essential tools for resilience and healing. Elizabeth R. Koch echoes this sentiment, celebrating the transformative initiatives that are reshaping classrooms and communities from the ground up.

For anyone interested in learning more about the Holistic Life Foundation and its initiatives, visit holisticlifefoundation.org or check out the certification program at hlfcertification.com. Unlikely Collaborators can be found at unlikelycollaborators.com. Together, these organizations demonstrate the heart of community impact through mindfulness and connection, paving the way for future generations to thrive in emotionally supportive environments.