MSU Extension Launches 4-H HealthCorps AmeriCorps Pilot Program to Address Youth Mental Health Needs
In a significant step towards addressing the pressing mental health needs of youth in Michigan, Michigan State University Extension, in collaboration with the Michigan Community Service Commission, has launched the 4-H HealthCorps pilot program. This initiative, which began in the summer of 2024, places six dedicated AmeriCorps members in various counties across the state to provide essential mental health and social/emotional wellness curricula to young people.
A Focus on Mental Health and Wellness
The 4-H HealthCorps program is designed to enhance the mental, social, and emotional well-being of youth through evidence-based educational workshops and family events. With a generous grant of $350,000 from AmeriCorps and the Michigan Community Service Commission, the program aims to equip young people with positive coping skills, self-care strategies, and healthy practices. This initiative is particularly timely, as recent studies indicate a troubling rise in mental health challenges among youth across the United States.
From June to September 2024, AmeriCorps members facilitated an impressive 65 workshops and events, reaching 847 youth in seven counties: Genesee, Saginaw, Clare, Gladwin, Oakland, Luce, and Marquette. These workshops were conducted in various settings, including 4-H and school summer camps, Special Interest clubs (SPIN clubs), and in partnership with local community organizations such as parks, recreation departments, and libraries.
The Impact of AmeriCorps Members
The AmeriCorps members played a crucial role in bringing the 4-H HealthCorps programming to life, each making a significant impact in their respective counties.
Genesee County: Maddison Campbell
Maddison Campbell served in Genesee County, where she was instrumental in delivering mental health and wellness workshops to youth across four different summer school programs. Her sessions focused on developing positive coping strategies and promoting self-care practices, directly addressing the mental health needs of local students during the crucial summer months.
Saginaw County: Oshay Mitchell
In Saginaw County, Oshay Mitchell reached youth and their families through neighborhood community centers. By providing a safe and supportive space, she facilitated discussions on emotional wellness and healthy living, fostering meaningful connections within the community.
Clare and Gladwin Counties: Erin Breault
Erin Breault, who served in both Clare and Gladwin counties, focused on mindfulness and self-care education through several SPIN clubs. Her programming equipped youth with essential tools to manage stress and prioritize mental health, imparting life skills that extend beyond the summer.
Oakland County: Shameca Dillon
Shameca Dillon took a creative approach in Oakland County by partnering with local libraries and parks. She offered weekly classes at four different locations, incorporating healthy eating habits, positive coping skills, and mental health education, creating a holistic approach to well-being.
Upper Peninsula: Mackenzie Dunbar and Justice Nix
In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Mackenzie Dunbar and Justice Nix were placed in Luce and Marquette counties, respectively. They engaged youth through 4-H summer camps, combining outdoor activities with workshops on mental and emotional health. Their efforts were particularly valuable in these rural areas, bridging the gap for youth who may have limited access to mental health resources.
Addressing a Growing Need
The necessity for the 4-H HealthCorps program is underscored by alarming statistics. A 2021 report from the Citizens Research Council of Michigan revealed that over a third of the state’s youth experiencing mental health challenges do not receive the necessary services due to barriers such as provider shortages, geographic limitations, and financial constraints. Vulnerable populations, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), LGBTQIA+, and youth with disabilities, are disproportionately affected, highlighting the urgent need for accessible mental health education and support.
The 4-H HealthCorps program aims to tackle these challenges head-on by bringing mental health education directly to communities. The 847 youth who participated in these workshops not only learned valuable skills but also gained access to resources that can help them navigate the complexities of mental and emotional well-being.
Looking Ahead
The pilot program has successfully laid the groundwork for continued expansion as it enters its first full year in October 2024. MSU Extension remains committed to supporting youth through these vital initiatives, ensuring that all children have the tools they need to thrive.
For more information on MSU Extension’s healthy living programming and educational efforts for youth, visit the 4-H Healthy Youth website. To learn more about the Michigan 4-H HealthCorps AmeriCorps program, please contact Andrea Villanueva, MSU Extension educator, at villan17@msu.edu or 517-355-2308.
Conclusion
The launch of the 4-H HealthCorps AmeriCorps pilot program is a beacon of hope for Michigan’s youth, addressing critical mental health needs through community engagement and education. As the program continues to grow, it promises to empower young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate their mental and emotional health challenges, fostering a brighter future for all.
