Statistics show that there has been an increase in mental health challenges, specifically in young people and particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, and one in five young people reported that the pandemic had a significant negative impact on their mental health.

While the COVID pandemic exacerbated the mental health crisis, it also contributed to more awareness of the issue and a growing acceptance and willingness to financially support the organizations and people working to solve it.

Our Response

In response to the growing mental health crisis in America, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has made the first round of grants from our new Mental Health & Well-Being giving area, totaling more than $5 million. The portfolio of 15 grants will help the foundation discover where philanthropy can be most impactful and assist in shaping our future Mental Health & Well-Being strategy.

The grant portfolio includes national nonprofits, as well as organizations serving the Intermountain West and Southeast regions, the primary geographies where we invest. Grants will serve all populations and ages and will prioritize youth and underserved or vulnerable populations.