Verdant Logo 2 pdf

Community Update | December 2024

891b6863 9e81 b001 fcf1 dee22bb4c955

As we approach the end of the year, we would like to take a moment to express appreciation for all of our partners and the work that you do to serve our community. Your efforts are essential to advancing the health of South Snohomish County residents, and we are proud to support you.     

This month, we highlight a few organizations that support our most valued asset…our youth. Today, the challenges young people face have seemingly increased over previous years. Our youth grapple with bullying that extends online, deadlier drugs like Fentanyl, rising costs that have strapped family budgets, threats of violence, and more. We celebrate the work these organizations are doing to support our youth in a variety of ways.           

Boys and Girls Club of Snohomish County 

The Behavioral Health Uplift Initiative (BHUI) supports 600 students, ages 5-11, in the Edmonds School District with afterschool behavioral health support through social emotional learning (SEL) curriculum, physical activity, and arts enrichment activities. This program strengthens skills in self-awareness, relationships, decision-making, and empathy towards others. They provide services regardless of the family’s ability to pay, 

The ACCESS Project 

The ACCESS Project works with BIPOC youth, 13-17 years of age, which is the age group most affected by violence, including gun violence. They provide confidential, free, and timely access to mental health services and other programs for youth. ACCESS partners with local schools, law enforcement, community health providers, and community service organizations to provide positive options for underprivileged youth dealing with mental health challenges.  

Well Being Youth and Family Resource Center/The Clearwater School 

The Well Being Youth and Family Resource Center provides holistic support that addresses the intersection of mental, physical health and access to resources like food and shelter. It is a collaborative organization made up of WAGRO, Mujeres con Actitud Latina and The Clearwater School. They host a variety of popular workshops and support groups for youth, adults and families such as family reading groups, parenting workshops, financial skills classes, art activities and many more. 

We also recognize other partners providing youth-focused services.   

Read the entire newsletter here: