Purpose

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. it affects how we think, feel, and act. We know that as a nation and state, we are facing significant challenges with youth mental health and well-being.  The Healthy Youth Survey conducted in 2023 revealed that the rates of anxiety, depression, suicide contemplation, and suicide attempts among young people in our region, along with the occurrence of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), generally exceed state averages.

We also acknowledge that there is no single correct solution to the complex challenges our communities face around youth mental health and well-being. Many interventions could potentially make a difference, and the complex and interconnected nature of the issues requires a thoughtful approach.

Designed to build local capacity and foster stronger connections among youth-serving organizations, equipping them with strategies to better support young people in our community, this cohort will prioritize a prevention-focused, upstream approach. Our efforts are designed to complement and enhance the great work already being done by schools, state and local agencies, health care providers, and other organizations in this space. 

Click here to access our website announcement.

Program Details

• Scope: 10-15 organizations, each receiving $10,000.
• Duration: Year-long cohort.
• Participants: 2-4 individuals per organization.
• Collaborative Grants: at the end of the learning cohort grants will be awarded for up to $10,000 per collaboration and selected based on participation of the cohort and planned implementation of the project or program.

Expected Outcomes:

• Increased Capacity: Organizations will enhance their ability to support youth through trauma-informed practices, including shared knowledge and language about ACEs and resilience-based practices.
• Collaboration & Shared Learning: Participants will share knowledge and strategies, building relationships with one another and strengthening the network of providers in our region, leading to more coordinated and effective supports for young people.
• Planting Seeds for Systems Impact: The cohort will help plant seeds for systemic change by growing capacity and fostering practices that can integrate into the broader community. As these seeds take root, they contribute to a more resilient ecosystem of support that benefits the entire community.

Due Dates & Timeline

• October 18: Cohort Applications Open
• November 24 at 11:59 pm: Cohort Applications Close
• December 23: Cohort Selection Announced
• January 14, 2025: First Cohort Meeting (In-Person)

Resources

• Program Guidelines (PDF) with additional information from what's on this webpage
• Application Questions (PDF)
• Learning Cohort Agenda (PDF)

Questions?

We welcome and encourage questions and feedback regarding this program. Community Foundation staff will be available from October 21-November 20 during regular business hours at 360.705.3340.

For specific questions about the Youth Mental Health Learning Cohort or Grant Platform (GLM) please contact our Program Officer, Tami Mason Lathrop (she/her), by phone at 564.999.4835 or by email at tami@thecommmunityfoundation.com. Tami will also be available for virtual meetings, and we encourage you to book a meeting with her for dedicated 1:1 assistance.

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