Stand for Courage (SFC) is a student-led movement that empowers middle and high school students to stand up, step in, and speak out against bullying. We focus on bystanders—the majority of students—by teaching and rewarding positive actions that create a culture of respect and courage.

Most programs are adult-driven, reactive, and punishment-based. SFC is the opposite: it’s student-driven, proactive, and positive. We use brain science and pop culture to build lasting habits of courage through recognition, storytelling, and peer leadership.

Any middle or high school can implement Stand for Courage. We also partner with youth organizations, camps, community centers, and sports programs that want to build a culture of kindness and courage.

Schools form a student-led SFC Team, download the Implementation Toolkit, and begin recognizing courageous acts on campus. SFC provides training, materials, and ongoing support to ensure success from day one.

Students nominate their peers who stand up for others, recognize them publicly, and celebrate their actions through awards, events, and storytelling. The result: fewer bullying incidents, more connection, and a stronger sense of belonging.

In schools where SFC has been implemented with support, bullying and menacing behavior have been substantially reduced, while student engagement and positive climate scores have risen dramatically.

Anyone—student, teacher, or community member—can nominate a youth in grades 6–12 who has stood for courage. Nominations can be submitted through schools, partner organizations, or directly on our website.

Absolutely. Communities can host SFC award ceremonies or sponsor school programs. Local businesses, media outlets, and organizations can partner to highlight stories and help expand our reach. You can also donate directly through our website.

Yes. SFC is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations directly support school programs, materials, outreach, and recognition events for courageous youth.