Over the past two years, The Melissa Institute has implemented Project Real USA, an adaptation of the original Project Real created in the United Kingdom by Dr. Yvonne Skipper, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Glasgow. Thanks to this partnership, we were able to bring an evidence-based educational program to the U.S. that equips young people with the skills to detect fake news and navigate online content more safely.
With guidance from Dr. Skipper and support from TMI Scientific Board member and cyberbullying expert Dr. Debra Pepler, we tailored the program for U.S. schools and communities. Since its launch, Project Real USA has been delivered over two summers, engaging youth directly and integrating positive youth development principles to build resilience, compassion, confidence, and a sense of connectedness.
In May 2025, The Melissa Institute convened a virtual conference on the impact of social media, drawing more than 400 participants from nine countries. As a follow-up, we developed Facing the Social Media Challenge: A Strategic, Practical Plan for Schools to Build Healthier Adolescent Minds and Stronger Communities, created and published in August 2025. This framework now serves as a free resource for educators, parents, and policymakers working to address the impact of social media on adolescent mental health.
As we move forward, the Student Advisory Board (SAB) will be implemented to ensure that young people’s voices continue to shape the program and its activities. Together with Dr. Skipper, The Melissa Institute remains committed to advancing science-based, sustainable solutions that protect youth online and foster safer, healthier communities.
