Open Doors: A podcast from the Allegheny Intermediate Unit
Welcome to Open Doors, a new podcast from the Allegheny Intermediate Unit that explores the people, programs, and partnerships making a difference in students’ lives.
From behavioral health resources to after-school programs and community partnerships, Open Doors shares stories and strategies that help students succeed — in school and beyond. Join host Shannon Fagan as we open doors to learning, support, and connection so every student can thrive. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.
What if wellness spaces truly welcomed everyone? For nearly a decade, Marissa Vogel has been helping make that possible in Pittsburgh — teaching mindfulness through movement and art while centering people living with disabilities. Marissa and her team are building spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and supported. In this episode, she shares why belonging should never be out of reach.
Teen mental health in the U.S. is in crisis— and the time for change is now. In this episode, Sarah Pesi, a policy specialist at the Jewish Healthcare Foundation, shares how Pennsylvania is reimagining mental health support by centering and empowering young voices. She’s joined by youth advocates Joy and Aanya, who share their experiences and the hope they’re building for the next generation.
Dr. Shannon Wanless from the University of Pittsburgh is helping lead a countywide movement to make social-emotional learning everyone’s responsibility. In this episode, she shares how supporting the adults who care for kids is key to building belonging and creating a system of support for every child.
The Allegheny County Health Department is going beyond traditional public health — helping shape the future of our schools and communities. In the inaugural episode of Open Doors, Kim Joyce shares how a powerful partnership with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit is strengthening mental health supports and changing what's possible for students across the county.