Boys & Girls Clubs Launches New Behavioral Health Program

May 31, 2024 | Sarasota

This Mental Health Awareness Month, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) is pleased to announce the launch of an innovative Behavioral Health Program designed to support and empower children and teens, ages 6 to 18, and their families. This new initiative reflects BGCSDC’s commitment to providing a comprehensive slate of wellness programs for youth by creating a safe environment where they can comfortably seek certified support to manage emotions and build resiliency.

The program is designed to offer a wide range of services. Each of the organization’s six Club locations will be staffed with at least one dedicated Master of Social Work (MSW) professional, who can provide on-site support to manage in-the-moment behaviors, helping youth quickly readjust and re-engage with their peers and activities. This dynamic team of highly trained professionals is committed to ensuring that Club members receive the highest quality of care.

Furthermore, Club members will have the opportunity to seek guidance from these mental health professionals in a secure environment, allowing them to decompress or discuss any emotionally challenging issues they may encounter.

“This new program is a key addition to the health services that BGCSDC has been providing for more than 50 years, including programs focused on building healthy habits and physical wellness,” said Danae Koeper, MSW, LCSW, Director of Behavioral Health Services at BGCSDC. “Families and children are facing unprecedented pressures in today’s world. By prioritizing mental and emotional well-being, we empower our members with the coping mechanisms necessary to grow and succeed.”

Access to the program is available for registered Club members through multiple referral avenues. These include self-referrals by Club members seeking further intervention, referrals from parents or guardians, recommendations by Club directors or school counselors, and internal referrals by the MSW.

“The importance of such a program has never been more evident,” said Bill Sadlo, President/CEO of BGCSDC. “Youth today face a wide range of pressures and challenges, from academic stress and social dynamics to the pervasive influence of social media, all of which can significantly impact their mental and emotional well-being. Programs that promote mental health awareness and provide support are essential tools to help them navigate these challenges, build resilience, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. By prioritizing mental health across our existing slate of award-winning programs, we can help these future leaders thrive and reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”

For more information about the Behavioral Health Program or how to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, please visit bgcsdc.org or call 941-366-3911.