YMCA of Honolulu Statewide Youth Mental Wellness Program - Project Abstract Summary The YMCA of Honolulu Statewide Mental Wellness Program proposes to provide school and community-based in-person services to youth and teens with a variety of experiential and therapeutic activities to help participants develop self-awareness, self-esteem, social skills, appropriate coping mechanisms, and stress management tools to address their mental health and wellness needs. All program activities will be conducted face-to-face at YMCA locations, Department of Education Schools, and venues where services are easily accessible to the community and take place outside normal school hours. The Y’s program will provide both Prevention and Intervention services to youth showing signs of distress. The goal is to screen 1350 youth, ages 11-18, and address the overall mental health and well-being of 810 youth registered in the prevention and intervention programs. Outcomes will be measured through screening, intake/registration forms, and surveys. The prevention and intervention components are based on the evidence-based curriculum 8 Dimensions of Wellness approach, providing up to 19.5 hours of support per student. Program staff will conduct pre- and post-program surveys to measure participant outcomes and help them develop strategies for managing their mental health after completing the program. Participants also receive a membership to health and wellness facilities and online content to help them with their physical health, along with socialization opportunities outside of the program. Participants will be referred to clinically appropriate care and resources if determined necessary. The target population is all youth aged 11 to 18, largely referred to us by community organizations, schools, or self-referral. While the program is open to all, regardless of demographics, we will have an intentional focus on reaching Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders and those who are low-income and disproportionately impacted by mental health concerns. As community-based organizations serving thousands of kids throughout Hawaii, our YMCAs are well-positioned to meet youth “where they are” in ways that are relevant to their unique cultural identities and needs. Geographic Catchment Area. Statewide (Hawaii)
