Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

Each year, it is the communities' creativity and innovation that capture the essence of Awareness Day.

In 2011, more than 1,100 communities held events for Awareness Day. Events included community events, youth rallies, social media campaigns, and art, dance, and music related activities for children and youth. Every Awareness Day event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of children's mental health.

If you are inspired to host your own Awareness Day 2012 activity, fill out and submit your pledge form (PDF - 111 kb) to share your plans with SAMHSA and the Caring for Every Child's Mental Health Campaign team.

Below are highlights of what communities are already planning for Awareness Day 2012.

Alabama

East Central Children’s Health Collaborative (ECCHCO) will be hosting Awareness Day activities in each of the three counties that it serves on Saturday, May 12. Each county will be featuring a variety of activities, games, and refreshments throughout the day. Each county also will bring in experts in mental health, nutrition, physical health, and safety. Those experts will be available to talk with participants about their areas of expertise, and how mental health, nutrition, physical health, and safety all work together to make a person healthy. Two counties will also be sponsoring a mental health walk/run to raise awareness for children’s mental health issues. ECCHCO will also have mayoral proclamations.

Arizona

The Pascua Yaqui Tribe will be collaborating with other Tribal agencies to hold a health fair for the community of Guadalupe. Many agencies will come together to educate the community on healthy lifestyles for youth. An equine program will be at this event with an informational booth featuring an art activity to educate attendees about children’s mental health.

Arkansas

EOA Head Start will be distributing mental health information at nine sites for Awareness Day. Materials will also be given to families for at-home activities and local organizations will be recruited to participate. In addition, the center staff will plan and initiate an activity at their office.

California

The Early Connections and Project LAUNCH will participate in a local health and wellness fair in East Oakland on May 19. Early Connections will set up a Mental Health Awareness Booth staffed by providers and family members to discuss early social/emotional growth. Handouts about local resources will also be available for families. The event is expected to attract 1,500 people and possibly receive local radio coverage.

Humboldt County will be collaborating with several community organizations to celebrate Awareness Day. During the week of May 6, Humboldt County will be hosting an awareness walk, peer art show, picnic in the park, and a city-wide gallery display and reception titled “Arts Alive.”

Project ABC, Los Angeles will be hosting an event on May 10 titled, “Creating Heroes—Honor, Exploration, Relationships, Opportunities, Education and Safety.” The event will feature speakers and several facilitators who will lead “mini-sessions” for parents, caregivers, and providers in attendance. The sessions will include interactive activities designed to strengthen adult/child relationships, increase the emotional health of minors and provide opportunities to practice play with purpose, emotional regulation, and modeling. At the conclusion of the event a “Creating Heroes” tool kit will be available.

The Los Angeles Guidance Clinic will be hosting Family Fun Fest for Awareness Day, an annual event filled with activities for youth and mental health screenings for children, youth, and their families.

The Native American Health Center will work with youth to create a two-minute video with the theme of “Healing Our Community.” These two-minute videos will then be presented to the community to celebrate Awareness Day the weekend of May 4-6, 2012.

Seven Generations Child and Family/United American Indian Involvement plans to host a community recognition celebration highlighting the success of family and client participation for Awareness Day. Youth and families will complete art projects during the evening, which will be displayed all month long.

Colorado

The Southeast Mental Health Services plans to host a community event in La Junta's city park to celebrate Awareness Day. The event will include games, prizes, food, art, and much more. In addition, there will be a 5K run/walk to promote mental health wellness and decrease the stigma of seeking out help.

Connecticut

New Britain Project LAUNCH at Wheeler Clinic will be collaborating with New Britain Public Schools to engage kindergarten children in Art Action activities throughout the week of May 9. Throughout the month of May, New Britain Project LAUNCH will collaborate with the Connecticut Department of Children and Families, Connecticut Help Me Grow, and the Connecticut Children’s Trust Fund to share with leaders across the community information that highlights the importance of first relationships and attachment in promoting child mental health and resilience. Additionally, the organization will host a family open house event at a community early childhood center to celebrate 58 children completing the HALO (Healthy Alternatives for Little Ones) health education and substance abuse prevention program. At the open house, families will receive important information about how to support and promote social emotional health and wellness for children.

Delaware

Delaware’s B.E.S.T. will host its 8th annual “Get the Scoop on Mental Health” in partnership with Rita’s Water Ice and the Delaware Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services. The community will also host a division-sponsored conference for mental health providers and families. On April 28, the Wilmington Blue Rocks will go green for children’s mental health. Delaware’s B.E.S.T. will also enter its 3rd annual partnership with licensed early education/care centers.

Florida

FACES of Miami/Federation of Families will be hosting the second annual Youth and Family Empowerment Summit. The Summit will feature an art exhibit showcasing art created by youth based on the themes of resiliency and recovery. The event will also have workshops available to youth and their families in which youth can learn about various topics, including the college application process. The event will be promoted through social media sites including Facebook and feature performances from Youth M.O.V.E.

The Manatee Children’s Committee plans to host a series of workshops for Awareness Day. The workshops will focus on the following topics, “Fundamentals of the Local Child Welfare System,” “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders,” “Advocating for your Child, Trauma Informed Care, Sexual Abuse & Reporting Issues,” “Mental Health Issues, System of Care,” “What’s Available and How do we Access it?,” “A Personal Journey, Effective Practices,” “Services to the Developmentally Delayed” and “Integrating Mental Health Services in the School System.”

The Multiagency Network for Students with Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities (SEDNET Region 8A) in collaboration with local agencies will sponsor “Speak Up for Kids 2012,” a free regional conference on May 25th at the State College of Florida in Sarasota, FL. The conference will include a keynote speaker, breakout sessions, panel discussions, exhibits, community art projects, door prizes and refreshments. Registration information available at: www.sednetfl.info Regions 5, 6, 7A, 7B, 8A, 13, 14, and 15 will be implementing a “Five Days of Children’s Mental Health Awareness” email campaign from May 7 to May 11 to increase awareness of children’s mental health disorders. Region 7B will be hosting an art contest for ESE students in two SED Day Schools to identify a hero of hope in their life. There will be a recognition ceremony at each school site for those contestants. SEDNET’s Success 4 Kids and Families will be hosting a community breakfast to celebrate Children’s Mental Health in Hillsborough County, FL.

The Orange County Board of Commissioners will be hosting its second annual “Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives” event. The event is an effort to build awareness and empathy toward children with behavioral and mental health disorders and their families. There will be food, activities, educational materials, and vendor tables providing social service assistance. This year’s event will include the local Federation of Families Chapter and YES (Young Educated Speakers).

The Florida Department of Children and Families, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Program Office will be delivering a video press release featuring the Substance Abuse and Mental Health (SAMH) Assistant Secretary, SAMH Director and Chief of Mental Health to raise awareness and feature the Department’s initiatives and successes in the area of mental health. The community will also facilitate the creation of several mental health blogs, the promotion of the 3rd Annual Peer Conference held May 21-24 in Leesburg, the broadcast of daily wellness tips, press releases to support activities and events, and the promotion of mental health treatment facilities planned activities.

Georgia

Chatham County Juvenile Mental Health Court has developed a one-page information and resource sheet that will be handed out to community partners on Awareness Day. Children and their families will also participate in community service projects to raise awareness about children’s mental health in the community.

Wraparound Initiative Northwest Georgia (WIN GA) will be hosting multiple community, school and outreach activities for the 15 county service areas for Awareness Day 2012.

Guam

Para Todu: Guam Systems of Care Expansion Grant plans to host several events in partnership with I Famaguon-ta (Guam System of Care), Project Karinu (Guam System of Care) and PEACE, a youth for youth suicide prevention program. The week of May 6–11 will be a week full of events dedicated to Awareness Day. These events include a Mass for families, youth and child-serving agencies at a local cathedral and a Governor’s proclamation signing. Para Todu will visit the local schools and surprise nominees for “System of Care School Ambassadors,” a program that recognizes education employees who are advocates for student success. They will be awarded along with “Expansion Planning Leaders” at an open house hosted by I Famagu’on-ta. To close the week there will be a Community Awareness Wave at the Mayor’s park. For the week of May 13-18, Para Todu will host an “Art of Healing” event with the theme “My Everyday Hero.” Youth will be asked to create an artistic expression of their System of Care hero and their artwork will be displayed at a local mall. During this week there will be another art event where artwork will be generated by children and youth in several public schools in support of the System of Care Expansion Grant. The artwork will be focused on “Systems of Care Through a Cultural Perspective,” which will be funded by the Guam Council of Arts Humanities Agency (CAHA). In addition, Project Karinu will have a parent focus group May 1 for a presentation entitled “Incredible Years (1-4) an Introduction” and an open house May 31.

Hawaii

Project Kealahou plans to host youth activities, such as a sign-waving at the state capitol and continue ongoing presence at local health fairs and public events.

Idaho

Madison CARES will be hosting a full week of activities for Awareness Day, including an art show May 9. The organization is in the process of planning an event regarding posters made by the youth group with the theme, “I am 100% original.” In addition, a proclamation will be signed by the mayors of Sugar City and Rexburg.

Illinois

ACCESS Initiative will be hosting several events from May 5 to May 12 to raise awareness about children’s mental health. The week will be kicked off with a Bullying Awareness Summit on May 5 and Green Ribbon Day/Faith-Based outreach on May 6. On May 7─9, ACCESS Initiative will be hosting a Resilience Walk, a Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Stakeholder Luncheon, and “Shifting Gears: Collaborative Planning to Survive the Present and Secure a Better Future.” On May 10, there will be a Youth Awareness Talent Showcase, and a professional networking social will take place on May 11. To wrap up the week, there will be a Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Block Party on May 12.

Project Connect will host its “Walk the Block” events in Harrisburg, Shawneetown, and Carmi for Awareness Day 2012. Mayors in 18 communities will also make Awareness Day proclamations. Project Connect will also host green ribbon/bow tying events in classrooms, churches, community organizations, and businesses. In addition, 10,000 Children’s Mental Health Matters green ribbons from the National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health will be distributed in the community.

Proviso West High School is planning to host various events in recognition of Awareness Day.

Illinois Project LAUNCH, in partnership with the Statewide All Our Kids Program, Illinois Children’s Mental Health Partnership, and other local community agencies will be sponsoring a Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day event at a local park district. More than 500 families are expected to attend the event. Local schools and Head Start have participated in an art contest called “I Am a Treasure,” where children drew pictures that illustrated their value to their families and our communities. More than 30 local agencies will be providing information about their services that promote mental wellness and prevent and treat mental illnesses. Activities include hip-hop aerobics, meditation, Kid Cafés, music and movement, and workshops on budgeting for wellness, parent leadership, prevention of bullying, and the impacts of trauma on children. A local State Senator’s spokesperson will be attending to read the State and City of Chicago Proclamation of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day.

Indiana

American Legion Auxiliary plans to encourage local units to participate in Awareness Day. The organization will provide ideas of getting involved via the organization's newsletter, including details of hosting local events, writing an op-ed, and utilizing social media sites. The local units will be encouraged to collaborate with local organizations such as the Art Therapy Association, Give an Hour, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration will be creating a 30-second public service announcement and a press release promoting National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day and month. Other activities include a project to increase self-esteem among youth and a governor proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Week.

One Community, One Family will post ads in local newspapers and host several presentations focused on mental health data and stigma. The community will also discuss the “Today I Feel Silly” book at schools and Head Start programs.

Iowa

Community Circle of Care will host the “Promoting Alternatives to Seclusion and Restraint through Trauma-Informed Practices” conference for Awareness Day. This conference will include presentations from a psychologist, social worker, and an Illinois Interim Mental Health Director from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration Center on Trauma and Justice. The target audience includes consumers, families, physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, and in-home workers.

Kansas

Kansas Project LAUNCH will host its third annual webinar series in recognition of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. The webinars provide professional development opportunities for early childhood professionals. More than 300 participants are expected to participate from across the State. Some topics include: addressing challenging behaviors, co-occurring disorders, perinatal depression, brain development, trauma-informed care, and a statewide community conversation that will encourage more involvement in children’s mental health efforts.

Kentucky

Buckeye Art Therapy Association, Hospice of the Bluegrass, Tri-State Suicide Prevention Coalition, and Rob’s Kids have partnered to host a community lecture and art reception on May 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hospice of the Bluegrass. This event will feature guest speakers and a group art experience facilitated by local art therapists.

Kentucky's System to Enhance Early Development and Kentucky Partnership for Families and Children plan to join forces with other state agencies to host an annual event in Frankfort, the state's capital. The event will be held at the history center and will focus on supporting military families. Speakers at the event include politicians, decision-makers, members of the military, youth, and families.

Maine

G.E.A.R. Parent Network will lead a Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Tailgate Kick-Off hosted by families to recognize State and local providers’ support. Two-hundred green bags will be hand-delivered by families to new mothers at 40 pediatrician offices statewide. The bags will consist of baby clothes, informational literature, green ribbons, “Rx for parents” magnets, a “Pledge to Protect” emotional well-being baby scrapbook-ready card, “This Child Has a Health Issue” card, a family story of paying it forward, and a “Watch Me Grow” chart among other items. G.E.A.R. Parent Network will also host 12 workshops on bullying, stress management, ADHD, de-escalation, responding to abuse and neglect, and tantrum management.

Maryland

The Black Emergency Managers Association will add the Awareness Day Web badge to their blog (http://blackemergmanagersassociation.blogspot.com ). To raise awareness of children’s mental health issues prior to Awareness Day, the Black Emergency Managers Association will be reaching out to their U.S. and international members.

The Maryland Coalition of Families for Children’s Mental Health will give away Mental Health Awareness Day kits with mental health information, wristbands, stickers, pencils, and more. The community has also partnered with the Maryland State Department of Education for the campaign and to distribute materials to schools. There will be a reception with featured guests including Maryland’s First Lady, Mrs. Katie O’Malley, to recognize children who created a poster to celebrate the week. In addition, the Maryland Coalitions of Families for Children’s Mental Health will host a local event at a health center with a popular DJ.

Rural CARES will partner with Chesapeake Voyagers and Mental Health Association of Talbot County to host a Community Wellness Day at Chili’s in Easton.

The University of Maryland Medical Center will be hosting its annual Baltimore Community Health Fair on May 10, 2012, at the Lexington Market between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Massachusetts

The Boston Public Health Commission will partner with the Boston Children’s Museum to host an Awareness Day event. The event will have several exhibits demonstrating the importance of supporting the healthy social emotional development of young children. The community will also host an open conversation with parents visiting the museum and ask them to pledge to be a Hero of Hope.

Cutchins Programs for Children and Families plans to host a day-long conference to address children’s mental health issues that will include conversations with clinicians, health professionals, public school officials, and parents. The conference will be followed by a dinner and recognition ceremony with a proclamation from the Mayor of Northampton.

The Holyoke Chicopee Springfield Head Start, Inc. will host a community event on May 5 at the Veterans Memorial Park in Ludlow, MA. The event is for children and families and will include yoga, music, face painting, story reading, and a collective art mural created by children. Several outside mental health agencies and service providers will be in attendance to offer information about their programs to families, as well as offer free resources and activities for children. Holyoke Chicopee Springfield Head Start will provide information as to how adults can become a “Hero of Hope.” At this time adults will have the opportunity to sign a pledge, as well as describe how they intend to become a “hero.” There will be snacks and light refreshments donated by local vendors and every child/family will get a ticket to enter into a free raffle. This celebration will begin with an Awareness Day proclamation by a local government representative.

Michigan

American Indian Health and Family Services of Southeastern Michigan (AIHFS) plans to have several activities in recognition of Awareness Day. These activities include poetry and storytelling “open mic,” healthy cooking demonstrations, green smoothies, face painting, an art table with beading, bouncy house, Native musical chairs, and a play area for younger kids. To promote Awareness Day, AIHFS will send Save-the-Dates to the community, including an article after the event in the organization’s newsletter and through Facebook and Twitter.

The Bronson Children’s Hospital will bring awareness to the psychological needs of patients hospitalized for physical illness by hosting a discussion about the inclusion of art therapy. This discussion will include an art therapist and limited licensed professional counselor on the pediatric and the pediatric intensive care units. A tri-fold display and an open Q & A section with the art therapist will be available in the atrium.

The Community Family Partnership Kent County System of Care will host their third annual UP2U Mental Health Festival in celebration of Awareness Day. The festival is a free family carnival, where attendees can partake in numerous activities, such as, a youth art performance contest, games and awareness and educational opportunities.

Minnesota

Polk County: Northwestern Mental Health Center will conduct a series of radio interviews, display photos in communities, and host health fairs and presentations to service providers, Family Voice and Choice, and Communigives. The organization will also host a display about mental health in the community.

Mississippi

The Mississippi Transitional Outreach Project will be sponsoring an interactive event to promote Awareness Day. “Be Your Best Treasure Quest” will have music, food, and fun for youth and families. The community will also host an open house in Clay County. Mississippi Transitional Outreach will be partnering with CMHC and NFUSION 7 for mental health week to host a conversation where NFUSION 7 staff and youth will share stories during Awareness Week at the NFUSION 7 building in Louisville.

CommUNITY Cares plans to host a Saturday “Family Fun Day” at Kamper Park for Awareness Day. This event will have local child serving agencies present to provide information, games, booths, food, and entertainment.

The Weems Community Mental Health Center plans to host a public program/rally on the front lawn of City Hall to promote National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. There will be radio and TV appearances, a newspaper story, widely distributed fliers, emails, personalized invitations, and special activities in children’s day treatment programs.

Missouri

On May 9 Circle of H.O.P.E. plans to host an event to educate and promote the anti-stigma message as part of the Family and Youth Empowerment Night. Anti-stigma materials will be posted in schools and trauma materials will be provided to school counselors. Family volunteers will be recognized for their efforts to promote empowerment activities. Other activities include carnival-themed games and the presentation of a proclamation by the Mayor of Saint Joseph. In addition, partnering organizations will have the opportunity to purchase t-shirts with information regarding Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. This event will be led by the planning group with representatives from the school district, federal qualified health organizations, the FOCUS Empowerment Group, parents and system of care staff.

The Mansfield R-IV Schools Guidance Department will conduct several curricular and co-curricular events for students in grades pre-kindergarten through 12 for Awareness Day. Teachers in this district will be provided with trainings/webinars and materials that focus on children’s mental health. School counselors and administrators are in the process of developing a day of “awareness” for the school community.

NAMI Missouri will assist advocates in many cities and towns with Mayoral proclamation signings.

The Pregnant and Postpartum Women’s Grant, in association with Alternative Opportunities Treatment Services (AOTS), will be hosting a Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Carnival. This event will raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and promote that positive mental health is essential to a child’s healthy development from birth. The carnival will be held on the AOTS campus. There will be snow cones, funnel cakes, face painting, graffiti wall art, family photo booth and prizes.

Montana

Mental Health America of Montana will host a statewide recognition ceremony in several sites across the state for Awareness Day. The “Heroes of Hope” model will be adopted to identify significant heroes in the communities in which there are Mental Health America of Montana affiliates. Mental Health America of Montana will also promote Awareness Day through social and digital communications.

New Hampshire

The Family and Youth Network Development Initiative (FYND) will be distributing posters, green ribbons, and information cards to doctors’ offices in the community. FYND will also send letters to the editors of several State papers and will participate in a radio talk show to inform the public about children’s mental health. In addition, children in the community will be reading a governor’s proclamation to the Family and Law Committee.

New Jersey

The Ocean County Department of Human Services will host its 8th annual community awards and proclamation ceremony. Community advocates in mental health systems of care will be honored and awards will be given for two youth contests. This year also marks the 5th annual Ocean County art contest for 5th grade students, with the theme, “What a Difference a Friend Makes.” On May 2, the Ocean County Department of Human Services will host its annual essay and poetry contest for teens and young adults. The winning entries will be posted on Facebook and on StigmaHurts.org.

During the week of May 9 the Source, School Based Youth Services at Red Bank Regional High School District will host several activities to support Awareness Day. These activities include information tables with pamphlets about teen mental health issues, daily announcements of relevant statistics, a bulletin board with information about children’s mental health and possibly giving green ribbons.

The Family Support Organization will host a car wash at the Spring Run School May 12, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Children’s mental health flyers and brochures will be distributed at the car wash.

New Mexico

The New Mexico Family Education Center plans to host a workshop that will provide families with the tools necessary to support long-term mental health and well-being of children in their care. The workshop will cover the impact of divorce, separation, family estrangement, and parental conflict on children.

New Mexico Project LAUNCH will be hosting a webinar titled “Community Action on Child Trauma” from 10 to 11:30 a.m., MDT, on May 9. To register for this webinar, visit: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Y7J9RQL

The New Mexico Systems of Care will celebrate Awareness Day statewide as an opportunity to increase awareness, build relationships, and increase exposure and outreach. As a statewide grantee consisting of three anchor sites, there will be separate events in each of the communities. These events include a Youth Jam, family nights, trainings, school art projects, mental health movie screenings, and park events. All events will be promoted on the New Mexico System of Care Web page and Facebook page.

The Mescalero System of Care is planning to host its building’s open house around Awareness Day. During the open house, the system of care is going to have traditional leaders hold a blessing ceremony for the building and the program’s cultural committee and family and youth groups will promote their functions using digital media. Those who attend the open house will also receive promotional items. Following the open house there will be activities for children as well as the first Equine Therapy Expo. The community is also hoping to get the Mescalero Tribal Council to proclaim May 18 as Mental Health Awareness Day at the Mescalero Apache Reservation.

Pueblo of San Felipe System of Care will host a community fun run/walk and a family day community picnic. Pueblo San Felipe will also partner with Head Start for an art contest as well as visit local elementary schools, including San Felipe Elementary and Algodones Elementary.

PB&J Family Services, Inc. (http://pbjfamilyservices.org/ ) will be hosting an Art Day on May 9 that will take place at the agency’s Therapeutic Preschool based in the town of Bernalillo, NM. Art Day will be repeated on May 10 for another group of families, and in the next weeks will be held at two other PB&J sites in Albuquerque. Art Day is coordinated by the agency’s art therapist and co-facilitated by other staff from the agency. On Art Day, the preschool children and parents join in imaginative sharing with one another to experience the healing nature of art. As parents are encouraged to follow their child’s artistic lead, this event also strengthens parents’ skills in supporting their child’s expressive process. Art stations will be set up outdoors in a festival-like atmosphere and feature activities such as easel, tile, sand, marble, and face painting. Information about upcoming arts-in-the-park and similar community-focused events will be available for the families on Art Day so they can access such opportunities on an ongoing basis. PB&J will inform the community about the success of Art Day via the agency’s newsletter, which is sent to 3,600 New Mexico homes and businesses.

New York

The Chautauqua Tapestry plans to host various events throughout the month of May in recognition of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month. Like last year, a partner focused media campaign will be offered in the local newspapers. Chautauqua Tapestry will also be holding two-day Sibshops training for local facilitators in the county. Sibshops is a fun and interactive program designed for the siblings of children with both mental and physical disabilities, to help them understand and cope with their siblings’ difference. In addition, there will be an art contest for local youth about mental health and wellness with a focus on suicide and bullying. Along with the art contest, a suicide awareness campaign will be launched. For the suicide awareness campaign kickoff event, materials will be unveiled, a mental health movie screened, refreshments served, and information tables set up. The keynote speaker will talk about the subject of suicide and mental health. To wrap up the month, there will be an evaluation conference to share ideas and results of Awareness Day among different organizations.

Long Island Families Together, Inc. (LIFT) plans to host a carnival theme community event in Hempstead to celebrate Awareness Week. The event will take place May 12 from 1–4 p.m. It will be promoted on LIFT’s Web page, Facebook, Twitter, and through local media.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., NuOmicron Early Childhood Education Center plans to host a parade and health fair for Awareness Day, which will include literature, an art show, early childhood games, and balloon launches.

OnCare has planned three events to celebrate Awareness Day. On May 5 an Awareness Day walk at the Inner Harbor will be held in collaboration with Family Tapestry. On May 15, OnCare is hosting “Got Art?” a “Heroes of Hope” themed art exhibit featuring art produced by OnCare children and youth. The art exhibit will be held at a local children’s museum. Prior to this event there will be workshops led by local artists to expose youth to several forms of artwork including collage, dance, sculpting, poetry, and Native American beadwork. See www.oncaresoc.org for more information about “Got Art?” The third event is a series of performances of “Severely Normal” by the Media Unit, a local teen performing arts group. “Severely Normal” is a 30-minute play about teens with mental health issues using the backdrop of a group therapy session to explore issues like cutting, depression, suicide, and bullying. These performances will be held at local residential programs, a local church, a center for LGBTQ youth, two schools and a performing arts festival. OnCare’s Youth Leadership group, Maturing Minds Council, will host audience talk-back sessions after several of the performances.

Open Door Family Medical Centers will host a “Reach Out and Read” reading of “The Brain Reigns,” a book published by the New York State Office of Mental Health as well as facilitate a feelings-oriented art project using “feeling” stamps and nurturing parenting coloring sheets. In addition, the Open Door Family Medical Centers will provide parenting tips derived from an evidence-based nurturing parenting curriculum.

The Orange County System of Care plans to host their annual Children's Mental Health Awareness Week. During the event there will be educational awareness presentations and activities, professional development opportunities, and multicultural presentations. The events will be led by a community workgroup.

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene/NYC Project LAUNCH will be hosting Community Conversations in East Harlem in Manhattan and Hunt Point in the South Bronx. Events include information about social and emotional development, family perspectives, resources from community organizations, children’s activities, and an open forum for discussion.

North Carolina

The Alamance Alliance for Children and Families will be showing the original documentary “Behind the Seen: Encounters with the Cotemporary Family” for Awareness Day. Behind the Seen is a project designed to inspire sustainable advocacy and action for children’s mental health in the community. One documentarian and 16 artists spent countless hours observing the everyday life of children and their families with social emotional challenges. As part of the project there will be an exhibit at the Holly Mills Mall in Burlington at the end of May. An opening reception for with the artists and families will be held May 10 from 6:30–9 p.m. Information about the documentary can be found at www.BehindTheSeenArt.com .

BECOMING will be hosting their 9th annual “Making a Difference” breakfast and awards to recognize those that have made a difference in the lives of Durham-area families. Following the breakfast, there will be a series of workshops on trauma, WRAP, Wellness City Drum Circle, Easy Home/Workplace Yoga, Stewards of Children, and more. In addition, local schools will be doing a “Bubble Release” in celebration of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. One school will include a children’s yoga activity following the “Bubble Release.”

Mecklenburg CARES will host a statewide green balloon launch in partnership with Charlotte Mecklenburg schools and local businesses. These balloons will be launched by both youth and adults and is expected to receive media coverage.

Ohio

Clermont FAST TRAC will have more than 970 children and youth across Clermont County participating in “My Feelings Are a Work of Art” activities in May. Event partners include Foster Care, Juvenile Court, Board of Developmental Disabilities, Juvenile Detention, Genesis School, Boys and Girls Clubs, Child Focus Inc. Wasserman Youth and Adolescent Center, Child Focus Head Start, Bilingual Preschools, Holly Hill; Williamsburg; Amelia, and Siepelt Elementary, New Richmond Middle, and Live Oaks Vocational School.

JOURNEY to Successful Living plans to host various events throughout the month of May. These activities include a Fountain Square LED Board from May 1–11, a media campaign and fair sponsored by Mental Health America May 2, a Celebration of Heroes banquet with proclamation May 9, an Ohio Resiliency Ring May 10, and a Green Ribbon campaign May 6 through May 12.

Oklahoma

Cherokee Nation Behavioral Health Services plans to conduct several Awareness Day activities, including a presentation about what everyone should know about children’s mental health. In addition, the community is working with 10 community coalitions across 14 counties in tribal areas to coordinate Awareness Day events. Each community is expected to form a team to design and conduct community-specific activities on Awareness Day.

The Jay Community Anti-Drug Network Coalition will recruit organizations that deal with children’s mental health both directly and indirectly for a mental health fair on May 9.

Muscogee (Creek) Nation — Children's Mental Health Initiative will host an open house and health fairs at five Indian Health Service (IHS) clinics. In addition, the system of care will initiate digital story telling.

Muscogee (Creek) Nation — Meth & Suicide Prevention Initiative will host the first annual Mental Health Awareness Youth Leadership Summit. The summit will focus on alcohol, tobacco, and suicide prevention to address healthy relationships and bullying. Local Native children in grades 7 to 12 will be invited to participate. To further promote Awareness Day, informational booths will be set-up at all the local health sites, and messages will be posted on the Muscogee Creek Nation Facebook page.

Oklahoma System of Care (ODMHSAS) plans to provide grants to education and faith-based organizations to implement a "My Feelings Are a Work of Art" campaign in their communities. The organizations are encouraged to use the grants to purchase art supplies, equipment, and costs associated with art shows and/or exhibits held on May 9, 2012, or the week of May 6–12, 2012. Everyone is encouraged to participate and submit their artwork. Artwork will be submitted to ODMHSAS for use as promotional material for the Children & Family Picnic Celebration on April 16, 2012. Furthermore, everyone is invited to create a 60-second public service announcement (PSA) and submit their entries on Facebook. The PSAs are part of an initiative to highlight the importance of children's mental health. Public voting will take place March 17–April 8, 2012, and winners will be announced at the Children & Family Picnic Celebration.

The Pathways Counseling and Referral Center/Crescent Public Schools will host a local mental and physical health fair May 5. There will be 15 booths at the fair, and the Ms. Oklahoma winner will attend to talk about mental and physical wellbeing. Local psychology students will also be leading presentations about copying, relaxing, problem-solving and self-esteem.

Oregon

On March 9, the Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest, or Nak Nu Wit, will host an American Indian/Alaska Native Family Day with the culturally-rooted theme, “Warriors against Trauma,” highlighting the strengths of youth diagnosed with mental health disorders. There will be culture and adventure-based youth and family activities, elder storytelling, traditional drumming, dancing and singing. There will also be face painting, arts and crafts, food and refreshments, and mental health materials and resources aimed at reducing stigma. The event will blend history and traditions of the past with modern day tribal urban culture. For more information, join the conversation on Facebook by “liking” “Nat’l Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day” and follow on Twitter @NCMHAD.

The Oregon Family Support Network plans to support the “Speak Up for Kids” events and will coordinate a statewide System of Care summit. They will also have celebration at the Capitol; activities include a proclamation from the Governor’s office, a Youth M.O.V.E. Oregon Annual Awards presentation, rally on the Capitol steps, and a physical art display in the Capitol’s gallery. In addition, there will be story sharing, face painting, games on the Capitol mall, community resources and exhibitors, and live art, including music, dance, comedy, and poetry.

Pennsylvania

Beaver County Behavioral Health will host an Awareness Day exhibit at the Beaver Valley Mall. The exhibit will be located around the central mall fountain. Exhibitors at the event include providers, managed care, and educational and consumer organizations. The exhibit will consist of a young entrepreneur’s balloon art, juggling by a community representative, a planting activity, basket raffle, giveaways, and onsite resources.

The Pennsylvania System of Care Partnership in collaboration with System of Care counties will celebrate Awareness Day 2012 in various ways. On March 21, the PA System of Care will host, “Youth Day at the Capitol” co-sponsored by Magellan MY LIFE youth groups and Mental Health Association of Southeastern PA. Youth leadership groups, such as MY LIFE, Youth M.O.V.E. Philly and Active Minds will join efforts to raise awareness for mental health and foster care and identify system changes that can better support youth. On May 7, Youth M.O.V.E. Philadelphia in conjunction with Every Murder is Real (EMIR) and Hope Charter, will host a conference following a week-long “Media Awareness Workshop” presented by journalist Jehron Hunter. The conference will address issues impacting youth in the Philadelphia area such as trauma, violence and depression. On May 9, Youth M.O.V.E. members will lead a youth symposium, “Inter-Generational Resilience: Expression of Trauma & Triumph.” This symposium will illustrate three generations of trauma and hardship and feature three stories presented by Holocaust survivor and child psychiatrist, Dr. Henri Parens, youth members and members of “Family & Significant Others.” The Montgomery County System of Care will host “Be There – Be Aware” at the Montgomery County Community College on May 14. There will be performances, music, refreshments, raffles and mental health resources. The performers are members from Aevidum and Minding Your Minds. In addition, sponsoring organizations will ask local school districts to promote Awareness Day by showing a youth-created Aevidum Public Service Announcement. The Lehigh County System of Care will provide mental health materials, community resources information and volunteer opportunities that will be made available at the county government building and on the Lehigh County Web site. Awareness Day reminders will also be sent to school district personnel and children’s service providers to urge them to share with youth and families. The Pennsylvania System of Care Partnership will also have a Governor Proclamation to honor National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on May 9.

Early Head Start/Head Start of York County will be visiting local libraries to help spread mental health awareness. Staff will be reading How Are You Peeling? and presenting music and movement activities, a craft, and a short discussion about mental health and wellness. The Early Head Start/Head Start of York’s audience includes preschoolers, elementary students, and parents in local communities. Handouts with mental health referral information and take-home activities will be shared with children and families so that they may continue the dialog at home.

South Dakota

Tiwahe Glu Kini Pi “Bringing the Family Back to Life” plans to host a “Trauma Informed Therapy” workshop along with a guest to bring awareness to the impact of trauma on children, their families and the community. Self-care tools, radio spots and newspaper ads will be distributed to inform the public. In addition, the Rosebud Tribal President will sign a proclamation for Awareness Day.

Tennessee

The Early Connections Network plans to continue the sticker campaign “I Choose to Care.” The campaign was initiated by the Mule Town Family Network.

Middle Tennessee Children’s Mental Health Coalition kicked-off its Awareness Day activities with a Whole Kid Festival on May 5. In addition, there will be a billboard, social media campaign and six local public schools will be targeted with mental health information and bracelets. Local service providers, non-profits and local high school students will set up booths with information and fun activities. Also, children will perform, create art and will be eligible to win donated door prizes.

Texas

Achieving Successful Systems Enriching Texas (ASSET) will assist a statewide youth creativity contest. The winning art entries will be displayed on ASSET’s Web page and at a public event at the State Capitol. The event will include a proclamation from the governor, recognition of youth winners, and table displays. ASSET also plans to release a policy paper regarding children’s mental health and use social media strategies to raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and the community activities occurring across the State.

Bexar CARES will host a resource fair and rally at the University of Texas with several feature speakers and families that will speak about children’s mental health. Family activities will follow this event.

The Children’s Partnership will have a “Heroes of Hope” presentation on May 9 to kick off free training focusing on trauma informed care titled: “Understanding Developmental Trauma.” The Children’s Partnership will also share trauma facts, distribute green ribbons and host proclamations at the City of Austin & Travis County Commissioners Court. The community will also collaborate with the Department of Social and Health Services to sponsor a local and statewide poster, writing, and video contest for children and youth to promote Awareness Week. The art contest will have a display at the Texas State Capitol to promote awareness and decrease stigma.

Corpus Christi/Nueces County will lead several activities for Awareness Day. An Awareness Day proclamation will be issued by Mayor Joe Adame at the Corpus Christi City Council meeting on May 8 and by County Judge Loyd Neal at the Nueces County Commissioner’s Court meeting on May 9. On May 8 the Corpus Christi Hooks will help raise awareness for Children’s Mental Health Day by offering half-price tickets to that evening’s game to staff and consumers of the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (TDMHMR) of Nueces County Youth Services Program. Staff and consumers will participate in special activities during the game and will submit artwork to the Children’s Mental Health Creativity contest. An article about bullying will also be submitted to the local newspaper.

El Paso County Department of Mental Health Support Services will have a grand opening of a new facility where youth will perform mental health skits.

Federation of Families will host a presentation with the public mental health agency at the University of Texas. The Federation will also display photo voice posters from Alamo Youth M.O.V.E. at the State Capitol and the youth will be recognized on the House floor. In addition, the community will also host Guadapalooza, a 2-day music festival in New Braunfels. Alamo Youth M.O.V.E. will hold a flash mob in downtown San Antonio and present an award to representative Menendez for being selected Legislator of the Year.

Hand in Hand is partnering with a local high school program in which at-risk high school art students and local college graduates develop murals for walls that have been magnets for graffiti. The mural theme is “Play Matters 4 Children’s Mental Health,” and SAMHSA’s Regional Director Michael Duffy has agreed to join for the unveiling. One of the murals to be created will depict children’s mental health.

The Rural Children’s Initiative of West Texas will partner with Neighbor to Neighbor and youth leadership groups UTurn and Heroes of Hope and Health to host a System of Care Stigma campaign in various communities and schools. Schools will be asked to invite students to wear wild socks on May 9, to participate in mental health fact vs. fiction announcements, to staff information tables, and take surveys throughout the school day. During the weekend, there will be a community health fair and cook-out, awareness walk, balloon release, mayor declarations, and a community Hop and Street Dance. In addition, the Rural Children’s Initiative of West Texas will host its 2nd annual “Recognizing Champions of Hope for Children and Families Awards.”

System of Hope will collaborate with various Hogg Foundation-funded children’s mental health providers to develop an Awareness Day activity.

Texas Panhandle Centers will host the 3rd annual “Texas Panhandle Centers Children’s Services Carnival.” This event is attended by system of care children, adolescents, and their families, and provides a fun experience at the end of the school year.

Williamson County is hosting a short ceremony in recognition of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on the Williamson County Historic Courthouse steps followed by a Resolution in Commissioners Court. The event will feature a display of poetry and poster art from Williamson County youth who submitted entries to the state contest based on the theme, “What Mental Health Means to Me.” Two high school students from Williamson County will be speaking about their entries and the importance of resilience and focus on recovery. Their presentations will be followed by the keynote speaker, Dr. Regina Cavanaugh with Lone Star Circle of Care (LSCC), who will be talking about what parents and adults can do to be “heroes” to the children in their lives. This event is coordinated through the efforts of the newly formed Children and Youth Behavioral Health Subcommittee of the Williamson County Mental Health Taskforce — a subcommittee of school districts, private and non-profit organizations, public agencies and other stakeholders interested in improving the behavioral health of Williamson County children and youth.

Vermont

Vermont Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health will produce a public service announcement with local partners to reduce stigma and promote positive mental health.

Virginia

On May 9 the Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services will host the first statewide Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day event in Richmond. The event will address the importance of children’s mental health, building partnerships with stakeholders and strengthening systems of care. Speakers include the commissioner, a child psychiatrist and parents. There will be food, presentations and vendor tables where public and private child-serving agencies will distribute educational materials.

The Virginia Art Therapy Association and the Children’s Museum of Richmond will host a “Heroes of Hope” art show that will include art activities for children and their parents and a Q&A section about mental health with parents and local mental health professionals.

Washington, DC

Expressive Arts Therapists at Children's National Medical Center will host an art activity, where handouts about children's mental health and expressive arts in pediatric settings will be provided. "Healing for Healing Children," an arts activity manual for pediatric settings, will be available for purchase.

Washington

The Yakima Valley System of Care will be celebrating Awareness Day Saturday, May 12. It will be a joint celebration with community partners, LAUNCH, Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic, Central Washington Comprehensive Mental Health, Catholic Family & Child Services, and Subway. The event will include physical, nutritional, and emotional wellness activities.

West Virginia

The Harrison County Parent/Educator Resource Center (PERC) will be setting up a display for 4 hours at a local mall to raise awareness about children’s mental health. The center will also hold a balloon launch in different locations throughout the State. On May 3, the community will be hosting a Children’s Mental Health Awareness and Resource Panel in collaboration with Mountain State Parents CAN, Harrison County Board of Education, and FAST (Legal Aid).

Wisconsin

Fond du Lac School District will be hosting school conversations. Local mental health professionals will be going into 22 classrooms in the Fond du Lac and North Fond du Lac school districts to initiate conversations with students on the transition to middle school. The discussion is designed to help students identify their feelings about the transition, acknowledge that everyone deals with change differently, find positive ways to cope with the change, and identify people they can talk to when and if they have any concerns.