Strong Minds,
Bright Futures:
A Partnership for
Child Mental Wellbeing
A growing statewide coalition committed to building a stronger future for Pennsylvania’s children. Launched in response to deep concerns raised by families, educators, health professionals, and youth during The Big Thing—a multi-year, community-driven research initiative, led by Children First, the Partnership is transforming how we support children’s mental health in our schools, communities, and care systems.
Across the Commonwealth, children and families are facing growing mental health challenges—but far too often, the systems meant to support them respond too late or not at all. Guided by five essential reforms, the Partnership is working across sectors to remove barriers to care, expand access to early intervention, and ensure that every child can thrive close to home.With Medicaid policies, local collaboration, and a commitment to prevention, Strong Minds, Bright Futures is building a system that works—for families, providers, and the future of Pennsylvania.
EVENT GUIDE:
AFFILIATE EVENTS
STRONG MINDS EVENTS
Young people should have a say in how mental health support works. That is why youth voice isn’t just something we talk about, it’s something we build space for.
That is one of the reasons why we’re excited to join the Youth Infusion 's NEPA Youth-Led Leadership Conference, where students are building skills, sharing ideas, and stepping into leadership.
David Heayn-Menendez will join a career panel and co-lead a hands-on media space where students can share their stories, interview each other, and speak about what needs to change.
This conference is about making sure youth voices are heard and creating space for young people to express their perspectives and help shape what comes next. Because better access starts with listening and amplifying the voices of those impacted.
April 23 | Camelback Resort
Learn more: site.pheedloop.com/event/NEPAConference2026
#StrongMindsPA #YouthVoice #YouthLeadership #MentalHealthAccess ... See MoreSee Less
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Rural communities in PA and across the country are facing real barriers to mental health support; long waits, not enough providers, and limited access.
A new SAMHSA advisory shows that community-based solutions like peer support are helping people get connected earlier.
As PA moves forward with our own Rural Health Transformation efforts, we need to get this right. That means making support easier to access, and making youth mental health a priority from the start.
#StrongMindsPA #paruralhealth #youthmentalhealthRural America is facing a behavioral health crisis. Workforce shortages, transportation barriers & stigma add to the challenge. A new SAMHSA advisory highlights peer recovery support as a powerful, community-driven solution ➡️ library.samhsa.gov/product/advisory-peer-recovery-supports-behavioral-health-rural-communities/pe... ... See MoreSee Less
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More than 30% students need mental health support
Schools are being asked to do more than ever and they’re feeling the strain.
A new statewide report shows:
• Rising student mental health needs
• Growing special education demands
• Ongoing workforce shortages
• Increasing financial pressure on schools
This isn’t just a school issue, it’s a systems issue.
Strong Minds, Bright Futures is working to make sure schools have the support they need by:
• Expanding access to services in schools and communities
• Supporting students earlier, before challenges escalate
• Strengthening the workforce
• Making it easier for families to get help
Because when schools are supported, students are supported.
Read more: www.cityandstatepa.com/policy/2026/03/report-pa-school-districts-facing-budget-healthcare-and-edu...
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