Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Marin Broadbent-Bell, alumni coordinator at Community Matters, to the Restorative Works! Podcast for this special series titled Matters that Restore Community in partnership with Community Matters. Community Matters is an internationally recognized, innovative, and thought-leading organization committed to improving the social-emotional climate of schools and communities. Founded in 1996, Community Matters has evolved from its roots in youth development and bullying prevention to become a respected provider of training, consulting, and programs delivered through its whole school climate framework. Community Matters has empowered more than 170,000 students and served over 2,100 schools across 42 states, the District of Columbia, as well as Guam, Paraguay, Japan, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

Marin shares his story, beginning in sixth grade when he joined the Safe School Ambassadors (SSA) program, a student-led initiative that empowers young people to prevent mistreatment and promote belonging. Nearly a decade later, Marin walks us through how the skills he learned as a middle schooler continue to guide his life and leadership today. Through personal stories and reflection, Marin explores what it means to "start with ourselves" when creating safer communities. He recalls transformative moments from the SSA training that reveal the shared humanity behind every story.

With over nine years of experience with Community Matters, Marin began his journey as a Safe School Ambassador in 6th grade, demonstrating a deep commitment to fostering positive school climates from a young age. Following high school, he completed two internships with the organization, gaining hands-on experience in program development before stepping into his current role. Driven by a passion for community building and meaningful connection. Marin continues to dedicate his work to creating safer, more inclusive environments in schools and beyond.

Tune in to learn more about Community Matters and consider that the seeds we plant in youth grow into the roots of resilient, compassionate communities. After the interview, stay tuned to hear from current and former Safe School Ambassadors as they reflect on their experience!