Amerigroup’s sponsorship supports the mental health and well-being of children and teens

Vancouver, WA (May 13, 2022) – Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) and Amerigroup are working together to support the mental health and wellbeing of children and teens. By providing $10,000 in partnership, Amerigroup will support 500 hours of staff time to implement a trauma informed, evidence-based program to better equip youth with the skills needed to build strong social-emotional health.

“Amerigroup Washington has made a commitment to innovating solutions that address whole health needs, which include physical, behavioral and social health,” said Anthony Woods, President of Amerigroup Washington. “We understand that mental health issues can take a significant toll on a young person’s physical health and fuel health concerns later in life, including diabetes, heart disease and stroke. By addressing root-cause behavioral health and emotional challenges early on, we can successfully mitigate health emergencies, improve health outcomes and build better, healthier futures for our kids across Washington.”

In January, BGCSW adopted PAX Tools™, an evidence-based strategy for Human Service professionals. PAX Tools™ works to increase self-efficacy, confidence and awareness of how to respond to youth experiencing a mental-behavioral health crisis. The implementation hours supported by Amerigroup, help BGCSW staff guide youth to self-regulate and de-escalate their own emotional responses to trauma, stress, anxiety, and triggers. 

"When youth have the skills and support they need to be able to manage their emotional responses they are better able to attend to learning and to build productive relationships with peers and adults,” said Executive Director of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washignton, Francisco Bueno. “They shift from surviving to thriving."

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ABOUT BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON

Incorporated in 1999, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington seeks to provide a positive environment, quality programs, and lifelong learning skills for all school age youth in Vancouver and its surrounding areas, with special concern for those who need us most.  To learn more about Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington visit mybgc.org