Prioritizing Youth Mental Health During Mental Health Awareness Month
- BGC Metro Baltimore
- May 1
- 2 min read
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore (BGCMB), we believe that mental health is a vital part of the overall well-being of every young person we serve. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we are reaffirming our commitment to creating a supportive and safe environment that nurtures both the emotional and mental health of our youth.
Mental Health Day: Prioritizing Staff Well-Being
In recognition of the importance of mental health, BGCMB Staff observed an organization-wide Mental Health Day on May 2. This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting the well-being of those who work with relentless pursuit to provide the best care and programs for our youth. By giving our team a chance to rest and recharge, we ensure that they can continue to provide the exceptional support our members need.
"At BGCMB, we're all about doing awesome work, and I know how crucial it is for our fantastic staff to get the mental health breaks they need” shared Director of People and Culture Oyin Fadiora. “When our staff feels great mentally, that good energy trickles down to the amazing members we serve every day. Mental Health Awareness Month is very important to us because we believe in taking care of our team so they can be their best selves while making a difference in the lives of our youth!"
The Impact of Our Programs on Youth Mental Health
At BGCMB, we empower youth by teaching them to identify and understand their emotions, a critical step in building emotional intelligence and resilience. Through targeted programs and activities, we help them recognize their feelings and learn how emotions can influence their behavior, setting the foundation for better coping mechanisms.
Our National Youth Outcomes Initiative (NYOI) data shows a notable increase in Club Emotional Safety, rising from 75% in 2023 to 80% in 2024. Additionally, NYOI data highlights the positive impact of our programs:
95% of youth understand how their feelings influence their actions.
97% said the staff at the Club care about them.
94% said staff encourage them when they make positive choices.
These statistics reflect the effectiveness of our efforts to equip youth with essential tools for managing emotions, an integral aspect of mental health. By giving them the language to express and understand their feelings, we are helping them build resilience and navigate challenges with confidence. Through our Calming Corners and programs like Zones of Regulation and Positive Action, we continue to equip youth with the tools needed to regulate their emotions and make positive choices that support their mental well-being.
Supporting Youth Beyond the Club
We also recognize that mental health support extends beyond the walls of our Clubs. That’s why we provide resources for families to access tools and support for their youth. We encourage caregivers to explore the following resources:
Our Commitment
At BGCMB, we are dedicated to fostering the mental and emotional health of every young person we serve. Through our programs, we are giving them the skills they need to navigate life's challenges, develop emotional resilience, and build a brighter, healthier future.
Thank you for supporting our mission to prioritize youth mental health. Together, we can create a stronger, healthier community for Maryland's youth.
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