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Pilot Program at Local YMCA Summer Camps to Address Youth Mental Health Crisis

A coalition of five organizations, including Center for BrainHealth in Dallas, Texas, has come together to create “YES YOU CAN!” — a pilot program that will deliver critical mental health support to nearly 600 children and teens participating in YMCA summer camps and learning academies.

NBC 5

Alanna Quillen

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and a new initiative launching this summer aims to make a lasting impact on youth across North Texas.

Overview

Summer can inspire us to change up routines, gain perspective and expand our realm of possibilities – and this opportunity is especially important for young minds.Yes You Can is a new pilot program launching in June at selected YMCA camps that will support better brain health for hundreds of children and adolescents by delivering mental health education and training.It is never too soon to take charge of your brain's health and wellness, and Center for BrainHealth is proud to partner with YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas on this important initiative – alongside Grant Halliburton Foundation, Metrocare and Momentous Institute. 

“”

"We're bringing the expertise to the kids and the families where they are at, so the program is very culturally-sensitive and is designed to fit into the YMCA culture and to help parents and counselors in a way that doesn't feel forced, in a way that people can grow with their mental wellness." Giselle Patterson Associate V.P. of Community Health, YMCA Dallas
The initiative highlights the growing need for prevention, especially among today's youth, with the Centers for Disease Control reporting that nearly half (42%) of teenagers experience persistent hopelessness or sadness.If this pilot program is successful, leaders plan to expand its reach across DFW in summer 2026.Read more or watch the video at NBC 5

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