During the most recent Community Needs Assessment, mental health was identified as the highest priority of health risk and need in Logan County. Furthermore, there is an increased concern about mental health for young people. Through a survey administered to Logan County students during the 2023- 2024 school year, 17% of combined 8th, 10th, and 12th graders indicated having attempted suicide one or more times in the past, and 20% reported feeling sad most or all the time in the past thirty days.
In addition, most of the respondents of the Community Needs Assessment named obesity and healthy lifestyle choices as a moderate or very serious issue facing Logan County.
Due to the statistics related to mental health concerns for youth and the importance of establishing healthy lifestyles at young ages, Community Wellness Grants were awarded for six area programs and initiatives that focus on youth mental health and youth healthy living.
Bellefontaine High School, $3,000 – Opportunity Program
Indian Lake Elementary School, $3,950 – Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs
Indian Lake Middle School, $5,000 – Just a Kid With an IEP
Journey Nature School, $1,000 – Whole-Child Learning in Nature
LifeCare Alliance, $1,000 – Camp Hamwi Diabetes Camp for Kids
LoCo Art – $2,500 – Stress Less Workshops
“Mary Rutan Foundation is proud to invest in improving the lives of youth in the communities we serve. We believe that we can be impactful by providing funding resources to area schools and organizations for programs and initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and mental well-being,” states Tammy Gump, Mary Rutan Foundation COO.
Mary Rutan Foundation began its community grant program in 2014. Since that time, over $485,000 has been awarded to local organizations committed to doing their part to make Logan County a healthier community.
For further information regarding Mary Rutan Foundation wellness initiatives or to contribute to the Foundation, please call (937) 599-7003 or email [email protected].
