Kiwanis Club of Troy Supporting School Youth Mental Health Initiatives

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2025

Kiwanis Club of Troy Supporting School Youth Mental Health Initiatives

Troy, Michigan – On December 16, 2024, the Kiwanis Club of Troy took a significant step toward supporting youth mental health by presenting a check to International Academy East Principal Patrick Griffin and Counselor Whitney Bernstein. This funding will bolster school-based mental health initiatives, aligning with the Kiwanis Club of Troy’s mission to empower every youth to be their best self by providing the tools necessary to thrive.

Recent statistics highlight the urgent need for such initiatives. According to Mental Health America, 20.17% of youth aged 12-17 reported experiencing at least one major depressive episode (MDE) in the past year, with 15% suffering from severe impairment impacting their daily lives. In Michigan alone, nearly 60% of teens experiencing depression cannot access the help they need. These alarming figures emphasize the importance of community-driven solutions like those spearheaded by the Kiwanis Club of Troy.

Kiwanis’ KIT Program: Addressing Barriers to Mental Health Care
In collaboration with the Troy School District and ARISE Counseling & Training Institute, Kiwanis Club of Troy has established the Kiwanis Inspired Teens (KIT) Program. This initiative is designed to streamline access to mental health care, reducing long wait periods.

"In Michigan, families seeking mental health assistance often face significant barriers, including long wait times, limited in-person availability, and overwhelming financial burdens," said Colleen Reveley, LMSW, of ARISE Counseling & Training Institute. "Kiwanis’ KIT Program steps in to eliminate these obstacles, providing a lifeline of support to youth and their families. This initiative enables and empowers youth in our community to move towards wellness and healing during such a critical time in their lives. We are grateful for Kiwanis’ commitment to our community and our youth."

Save the Date: Harvesting Hope Fundraiser
To continue supporting youth mental health initiatives, Kiwanis Club of Troy invites the community to attend the Harvesting Hope: Healing Begins with US
Youth Mental Health Fundraiser on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Troy Historic Village. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit the KIT Mental Health Program. Details can be found at Kiwanis Club of Troy.

Join Us in Making a Difference
Kiwanis Club of Troy is dedicated to addressing youth mental health challenges and empowering the next generation. For more information about how you can get involved or support these efforts, contact kiwanisclubtroymi@gmail.com
or reach out to President Vicki Cerven-Astell at 248-561-8934.

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About Kiwanis Club of Troy:
The Kiwanis Club of Troy has long served the local community with a focus on empowering youth, fostering connections, and addressing critical challenges. Through innovative programs like the KIT Program, the Kiwanis Club of Troy continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in need.