Youth Programming
NAMI Richland County's free youth programs help children and teens build resilience, strengthen emotional well-being, and develop healthy coping skills through school partnerships and community programming.
​
Explore our programs below to learn more or request a program.
​
No specific medical therapy or treatment is endorsed.
Minds Connect
Minds Connect is a school-based lunch support group designed to give middle and high school students a safe, welcoming space to connect with peers and focus on their mental well-being. Held during the school day, Minds Connect provides students with an opportunity to step away from daily stressors, build meaningful relationships, and engage in conversations that promote emotional wellness.
​
Through guided discussions, interactive activities, and skill-building exercises, students learn healthy coping strategies, strengthen resilience, improve communication, and develop tools to navigate life's challenges. The group also encourages connection, reduces feelings of isolation, and helps create a supportive school environment where students know they are not alone.
​
Minds Connect is facilitated in partnership with local schools to provide students with accessible mental health support and foster a culture of understanding, connection, and hope.
Dewald Mental
Wellness Mondays
Dewald Mental Wellness Mondays is an after-school program that helps students build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support their mental well-being in a fun, engaging, and supportive environment. Each session focuses on topics that encourage self-awareness, emotional wellness, and healthy coping while giving students the opportunity to learn alongside their peers.
​
Through hands-on activities, guided discussions, and interactive lessons, students explore topics such as stress management, emotional regulation, self-esteem, healthy relationships, mindfulness, and resilience. The program encourages open conversations about mental health, helps reduce stigma, and empowers students with practical tools they can use both in and out of the classroom.
​
Dewald Mental Wellness Mondays provides a safe and welcoming space where students can connect with others, build positive habits, and strengthen the skills they need to navigate everyday challenges while supporting their overall mental health and well-being.
NAMI-RC & Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland are partnering to offer education and activities that focus on mental wellness wherein a badge can be earned when a girl scout dives into understanding their emotions and participating in a program that reminds them that they are never alone in facing challenges.
Fly Your Flag is a free 12-week program for LGBTQIA+ middle and high school youth, offered through a partnership between NAMI Richland County and Love on a Mission. Meeting every Monday, the program provides a welcoming space where youth can build confidence, strengthen their mental well-being, develop life skills, and create meaningful connections through the four pillars of Heart, Mind, Life, and Community. Each week features a new topic with engaging activities and meaningful conversations that encourage personal growth and help youth navigate everyday life with confidence.
​
New participants are welcome throughout the series.
Interested in learning more about any of our youth programs? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Alexie Lorenz, Youth Program Coordinator, at 419-522-6264 ext. 4 or email Alexie@namirc.org to ask questions, learn more about available programs, or discuss bringing a program to your school or organization.
