In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic causing social isolation and economic uncertainty, the global storytelling organization, I Am Second, is now providing resources for home-bound students, churches, small groups and individuals looking to recharge and make meaningful connections.
“A month ago it was unusual to use online conference calls and chats for deep conversation and for growing healthy relationships, but desperate times call for creative measures,” said I Am Second Executive Director Mike Jorgensen. “We want to help people facing isolation or other anxieties find peace in the midst of the crazy. So we have re-purposed our online tools to help people stay connected and develop community.”
I Am Second offers encouraging content and more than 100 short, inspirational films from celebrities, cultural influencers and everyday people sharing remarkable stories of overcoming adversity and finding grace, hope and peace through an encounter with Jesus.
Specific for these challenging times, the organization has developed “Coronavirus Guide for Spiritual Health,” available at iamsecond.com/coronavirus, which details a three-step guide to stay sane and connected during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as access to discussion and group guides for select films. Tools specifically for students are gathered at iamsecond.com/students.
“In times of uncertainty, hope is the greatest thing we can offer,” said John Humphrey, I Am Second vice president. “We have already heard from overwhelmed parents, church leaders and individuals of faith who are finding encouragement, inspiration and community through watching these real-life stories and engaging with the discussion guides.”
All of I Am Second films are searchable by topic and address a number of mental health topics from grief and anxiety to death and loneliness as well as relevant issues such as eating disorders, marriage, substance abuse, work and numerous concerns that people might be struggling with under the stress of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
“While every person might not identify with the exact situations within an I Am Second film, they can identify with the feelings that come with them,” said I Am Second Writer Doug Bender.“You might be at home away from your routine and your support group, but these stories can give you a sense of light at the end of the tunnel.”
I Am Second also provides daily videos and encouraging content via the I Am Second Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. For more information, visit iamsecond.com.