MAKING COUNSELING AVAILABLE FOR YOUTH AND FAMILIES
With the generous support of our donors, The Kroc Center is committed to addressing the significant need for mental health services by providing subsidies for mental health services to uninsured and underinsured youth and families. 

Youth and families needing mental health services can refer to the Mental Health Referral List that highlights our local resources. If they find a suitable provider, they can submit a Support Services Interest Form to apply for financial assistance. If approved, The Kroc Center will cover $100 per session up to eight sessions with the chosen provider. This initiative aims to make mental health services more accessible and affordable for those in the community who need it most.

In 2024, The Kroc Center provided $10,500 in counseling vouchers. This support has helped community members in crisis become stabilized and foster healthier relationships and lifestyles, improving their overall well-being. 

EQUIPPING MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH MENTAL HEALTH TOOLS
The Mental Awareness Club (MAC) at The Kroc Center is a free weekly program for middle school students to explore and talk about mental health in a supportive environment. MAC offers a safe space for youth to connect, share their experiences, and learn valuable coping strategies.

Led by a licensed mental health counselor, the club focuses on building emotional intelligence and covers topics such as stress management, self-awareness, and identity development. Students are encouraged to guide discussions based on their interests and needs, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.

During the 2024–2025 school year, an average of 35 middle school students attended MAC, developing skills that have led to healthier relationships with their friends and family. 

KOOTENAI COUNTY IS IN A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

• In 2020, 12.6% of Idaho youth between the ages of 3 and 17 experienced anxiety or depression.
• Nearly 10% of high school students have attempted suicide, and 18.8% have seriously considered suicide (2022 Kids Count Data Book)
• In 2021, almost 50% of individuals in Idaho who needed mental care were unable to access it due to cost.
• Nearly 1,600 individuals in Kootenai County are on a waiting list to see a mental health provider.
• The shortage of providers has resulted in a lack of therapeutic specialists in schools. In the Coeur d'Alene School District, one of the three middle schools offers therapy services for just half a day each week, while the other two middle schools provide these services only one day a week.
• Approximately 27% of people in the region report poor mental health days each month, which is higher than the national average.

THE BENEFITS OF THERAPY

• Feel stronger in the face of challenges.
• Recognize and change behaviors that may be hindering your personal growth.
• Look at ways of thinking that affect how you feel.
• Heal from past traumas.
• Build effective relationship skills.
• Figure out your goals.
• Develop a stronger sense of self-confidence.
• Learn effective coping strategies to manage symptoms of distress.
• Manage strong emotions like fear, grief, or anger.
• Improve your problem-solving skills.
• Learn how to ask for help when needed.
• Set healthy boundaries and communicate effectively.