Turning Point: A groundbreaking mental health campaign for our region

With the community facing a rising demand for children's mental health services, at a time when the need is already unmet, we're taking bold steps. The Miller-Dwan Foundation has begun a $5-million campaign centered in the belief that every child has the right to a healthy childhood. We will create a center for a new model of care. We will give more families access to essential mental health services. We will aim to reduce stigma by shining light on the realities of mental illness, helping move the discussion-and the children struggling with illness-out of the dark. Creating this Turning Point is an urgent need. Consider the statistics. Each month, in Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, we lose an average of two children or young adults a month to death by suicide or drug overdose. Two thirds of all teen suicides occur in greater Minnesota, where only one third of the teen population lives. And in Wisconsin, 18 percent of high school students reported having seriously considered suicide. These are just a few of the many alarming statistics surrounding this epidemic. This center will provide a home-like, warm atmosphere for healing. Children, teens and young adults will receive intensive group therapy in addition to alternative therapy's like art, music, pet and drama during the day and will be able to return home at night. Parents, families and caregivers will have access to a resource center and support groups to help them learn about their child's disease. Right now, due to the limited reimbursement healthcare providers receive for their mental health care services, philanthropy is the only way to turn this vision into reality. We need your help, and we need it fast. We're losing our children. The quicker we're able to raise this $5 million and get this center built, the more children we'll be able to help, and the less we will lose. As of January of 2010 we are at $2 million. Find out how you can help by calling 218-786-5829 or emailing Pat Burns at pburns@mdfoundation.org. You can throw a party to educate your friends/family about the project, hold your own fundraiser or be a donor yourself. The possibilities are endless and the results will be life-changing.