ArtGard is a therapeutic art and gardening initiative that combines creativity, cultural expression, and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) to support mental health. The program offers activities for all ages, including mothers (Mommy Matters), fathers (Daddy Counts), and children (Creating Happy Futures). By using art and nature-based activities, ArtGard helps participants process trauma, build resilience, and reconnect with their cultural roots. It also encompasses aspects of workforce development in the mental health field. May take place in a community partner site or school.
Problem Statement: In today’s digital age, young people, particularly BIPOC youth, are overwhelmed by constant information, unrealistic societal pressures, and rising mental health challenges. With 37% of U.S. adolescents reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness and nearly 20% seriously considering suicide, there is a critical need for holistic mental health interventions. Many underserved communities lack access to culturally inclusive, engaging mental health programs that help youth process trauma, regulate emotions, and build resilience. Without intervention, these youth are at greater risk of long-term mental health issues and disconnection from their cultural identities.
Solution Statement: The Therapeutic Play Foundation’s ArtGard Program directly addresses these challenges by offering a holistic, culturally inclusive approach to mental health through art, gardening, and Social Emotional Learning (SEL). By incorporating creative expression, heritage gardening, and mindfulness practices, ArtGard helps BIPOC youth process the overwhelming pressures of the digital world, strengthen their emotional resilience, and connect with their cultural roots. Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, the program reduces mental health stigma, promotes self-awareness, and builds a supportive network that fosters both individual and community well-being. This scalable model empowers youth to lead their own healing journeys while promoting mental health access and wellness across diverse communities.
Program Goal: Foster mental health and emotional resilience in youth and their school and home communities through a culturally inclusive and creative approach that combines art, gardening, and Social Emotional Learning (SEL). ArtGard seeks to help young people process trauma, manage the overwhelming pressures of the digital world, and reconnect with their cultural roots. By partnering with schools and community organizations, the program reduces mental health stigma, encourages self-awareness, and promotes long-term well-being and community resilience.
Eligibility Requirements for ArtGard Program (Program #2):
- Target Audience:
- Youth between the ages of 11-15, with a focus on middle and high school students who may be interested in future careers in mental health or wellness.
- Any School-aged Youth, including preschool, who may benefit from socialization and coping skills and increased resiliency.
- BIPOC youth who are navigating societal pressures, mental health challenges, or experiencing disconnection from their cultural identities.
- School districts seeking to decrease stigma about mental health by educating students to be peer wellness leaders and act as support to each other.
- School and Community Partnerships:
- Participants are selected through partnerships with schools, community organizations, and youth support programs in underserved communities.
- Outreach and education incorporated into family events via collaboration with school and community partners.
- Geographic Eligibility:
- Priority is given to students attending schools in districts or communities with limited access to culturally inclusive mental health resources, particularly those in California.
- Referral Process:
- Students may be referred by school counselors, educators, or community partners who recognize a need for mental health support, emotional regulation, and resilience-building.
- Commitment to Participation:
- Participants must commit to attending the program’s interactive workshops, which include art, gardening, and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) sessions, and engage in collaborative peer activities.
- Ongoing involvement in group projects designed to strengthen emotional resilience, process trauma, and reduce mental health stigma is required.
- Mental Health Awareness:
- Participants should exhibit interest or need in addressing mental health concerns, such as persistent feelings of sadness, stress, or anxiety, and should be open to exploring holistic and culturally tailored approaches to emotional well-being.
- Measurement:
Tracking Decreasing Stigma, Increasing Resilience- Brief Universal Prevention Program Survery (TLA Provided)
- Resilience Trackers (Assessments from Blueprint-Health)
- Student, Parent, School Staff, Community Interviews (Stigma – CHW Interviews)
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