UnitedHealthcare (UHC), in collaboration with BGCWA, has identified a cohort of Clubs to receive funding in support of prevention programs. Funds will target communities and Clubs with the greatest need, reflecting higher Medicaid populations. UHC has committed funds aimed at fostering a positive impact on youth mental health through programs focused on Healthy Lifestyles. The partnership will advance our mutual efforts to foster healthy lifestyles among Washington’s youth.
This partnership also provides a vital benefit to UHC Medicaid youth members to participate in local Boys & Girls Club programs. UHC members are provided free annual BGC membership by going to their local Club and identifying themselves as UHC members. The annual membership includes after-school activities, including healthy lifestyles programs, mentoring, and homework assistance.
Youth of the Year Sponsorship
- Teens from across the state furthered their leadership skills by participating in Virtual Youth of Activities.
- 15 Teens competed from across the state of Washington. These leaders are chosen by their local organizations based on their community service, academic success, and personal character.
- A Virtual Youth of the Year Event was held with our 15 participants in May of 2020 to protect public health and our members across the state.
2020 Mental Health Grant Program
Four Club Organizations benefitted from programmatic investments made with the help of United Healthcare’s grant program. Clubs received grants ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 to assist with mental health programs for their members
BGC King County | Southwest Branch
During the COVID19 crisis, programs focused on mental health, resilience, and coping have been even more crucial for young people. Our Southwest Club has continued to implement a variety of programs which promote mental health and emotional and social skill-building. While schools have remained closed, the Club has continued to serve as a vital space for social interaction and emotional growth. Staff offer both a supportive core program schedule that builds confidence and resiliency, as well as intervention for youth showing early signs of behavioral or mental health issues.
BGC Bellevue | Downtown Branch
Since March 2020, when Covid-19 forced sudden school closures, BGCB made a commitment to fill the gaps in accessible youth care, food scarcity, and academic support by keeping our doors open for families in need. This school year, sites are operating as full-day remote learning centers and combatting food insecurity by providing breakfast, lunch, and snacks to all members.
With out-of-school learning, food insecurity increases, and educational gaps widening, we are doing whatever it takes to ensure every child has equal access to resources, trusted mentors, and safe learning environments.
BGC Thurston County | Lacey Branch
The BGCTC Skills Coach collaborates with children to deepen their sense of belonging, develop coping skills, and resolve conflict. Between January and March 16th, 2020, youth and teens at the Lacey Boys & Girls Club had the opportunity to meet regularly with a licensed mental health professional on staff at their Club. The Skills Coach works with members to develop coping skills and an understanding of the feelings-thoughts-actions cycle.
Many Club members who worked with their Skills Coach find these small group cohorts to be beneficial during the Coronavirus pandemic. Small groups allow Clubs to comply with department of health regulations for social distancing, but also offer stability and more connection with caring mentors and peers. Club has been a lifeline for working families during this crisis.
BGC South Puget Sound
During both our summer and fall day camp program, we have been working on Mindfulness with our youth. During these unprecedented times, it is important that we are teaching our youth how to manage their emotions. Mindfulness benefits children’s brains and improves their behavior; it improves their attention span and helps them become more resilient to stress.
Ready, Set Grow | Gardening is a great way to relieve stress, worry, and anxiety. This fall our youth participated in planting and taking care of a rain garden with the help of several volunteers from Trust for Public Land. Gardening has been shown to improve physical and emotional well-being and has social benefits as well.
2020 Medicaid Membership Reimbursement
United Healthcare members are provided free annual BGC membership by going to their local Club and identifying themselves as United Healthcare member. The annual membership includes after-school activities, including healthy lifestyles program, mentoring and homework assistance.
