ADDRESSING YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS: YMCA DALLAS & HEALTH EXPERTS INTRODUCE VITAL NEW PROGRAM

0
Yes you can

“YES YOU CAN!” Initiative to Focus on Brain Plasticity and Comprehensive Support

DALLAS, TEXAS (May 6, 2025) – The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas in partnership with Grant Halliburton Foundation, Metrocare, Momentous Institute, and Center for BrainHealth, have developed the “YES YOU CAN!” pilot program set to launch in June 2025. This project is made possible in part through support from Lyda Hill Philanthropies, the Hersh Foundation/Ken Hersh and Regen Horchow, and The Bette Rathjen Foundation for Emotional Health.

The initiative is specifically designed to reinforce the concept of brain plasticity, the brain’s ability to change and adapt. The program will also focus on refining existing training, platforms, and interventions from partner organizations in a cohesive approach to support comprehensive care to children, teens, parents, and counselors at select Y summer programs.

In a recent report by the CDC, the percentage of high school students experiencing sadness or hopelessness has steadily increased over the span of the decade. In 2023,  40 percent of teens reported experiencing symptoms of depression, compared to 20 percent in 2011.

The Y is deeply committed to addressing the growing mental health needs of youth in North Texas. Recognizing the critical importance of mental wellness, the Y established a mental health advisory board in 2022 and recruited leading experts from across North Texas, all of which are a part of the “YES YOU CAN!” initiative.

“The organizations’ collective expertise have been instrumental in shaping our approach for an effective program that can be replicated sustainably,” said Giselle Patterson, Associate Vice President of Community Health “Our goal is to help children and teens become more resilient and improve their overall well being. We look forward to seeing how ‘YES YOU CAN!’ will touch the lives of our community.”

Groups in the program include the Y’s summer learning academy, teen camps, and Kamp K’aana at Camp Grady Spruce, a two-week sleep away camp that serves children above a healthy weight. Combined, nearly 600 campers, parents, and Y staff will have mental health resources through a combination of virtual and in-person methods to maximize accessibility and impact.
YES YOU CAN!” will provide mental health support through several channels, such as:

  • Counselor Training: Camp counselors will receive training using resources from the Grant Halliburton Foundation, Metrocare, Momentous Institute, and The Center for BrainHealth, to address the needs of campers more effectively.
  • Camper Programming: Children and teens will have access to robust mental health programming designed to promote well-being.
  • Parent Resources: Parents will receive training and tools to support their child’s mental health long after camp concludes.
  • Professional Support: Metrocare will provide licensed mental health professionals on-site and virtually, ensuring access to expert care.

As a frontline organization, the Y is dedicated to being a thought leader on mental wellness as an issue that is important to North Texans and surrounding communities. If families would like to learn more about “YES YOU CAN!” and other Y programs, visit the website: www.ymcadallas.org

Previous articlePEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth and World of Play Announce New Character Experience
Next articleTexas Golf Drives $14.2 Billion Economic Impact and 107,000 Jobs for the State
Kristin Barclay
Kristin Barclay graduated from the University of South Carolina with a major in Journalism and Advertising. Throughout her career, Kristin has demonstrated a passion for storytelling and a commitment to providing accurate, timely, and informative news coverage. She has a deep understanding of the issues and concerns facing local communities and has earned a reputation as a trusted source for reliable news and information. In addition to her work as an editor and journalist, Kristin is also a skilled writer and has written articles on a wide range of topics, including politics, business, education, and culture. She has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling stories that engage and inform readers. Kristin is also an active member of the community and has volunteered her time and resources to numerous organizations and causes. She believes in the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the world around us. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kristin Barclay is also a passionate advocate for local journalism and the role it plays in keeping communities informed and engaged. She believes strongly in the importance of supporting local news outlets and is dedicated to ensuring that quality journalism remains a vital part of our society. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys traveling both for business and pleasure. She loves exploring new places, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures. Whether she's on a business trip or a vacation, Kristin is always eager to discover what makes each place unique and special. Kristin's passions include boots, bourbon, dogs and college football. She is a self-proclaimed boot aficionado and has an impressive collection of cowboy boots that she wears with pride. She also enjoys sipping on a good bourbon and spending time with her husband and beloved border collies. Last but certainly not least, Kristin is the proud mother of two children who bring joy and meaning to her life. She is deeply committed to being a loving and supportive parent, and her children are her greatest source of inspiration and motivation

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.