I suppose stress is just a part of life. It can affect us in many negative ways. That’s why coping strategies are important. And it’s especially important to learn how to manage stress at a younger age, so that adulthood can go a wee bit smoother.

Layla Allen of Cleveland Heights quit her day job to feed her passion– helping today’s youth cope with stress. She started the COPE Network, which stands for Creating Opportunities for People Empowerment. Not only did she create a network, but she’s invented coping boxes with items that allow youth to explore self-expression: journals, a stress ball, bubbles to practice breathing techniques. The boxes are crafted based on age group.

Click HERE to learn more about COPE and to order a box for someone you may know that could use the guidance.