Awareness Months

On this page we will highlight national awareness months related to mental health and substance use/misuse.

JuLY is National Make A Difference to children month

“Children are human beings to whom respect is due, superior to us by reason of their innocence and of the greater possibilities of their future.”—Maria Montessori, education philosopher and physician.

National Make a Difference to Children Month, established in 2006 by child advocate Kim Ratz, aims to inspire parents, providers, and individuals who care about children to actively contribute to the well-being of kids not only in July but throughout the year. Numerous USF CJMHSA Reinvestment Grants have been instrumental in creating programs that offer year-round support for our juvenile population. Peer support and mentoring are crucial elements in providing services for young individuals, and this month serves as a reminder for organizations to prioritize these aspects.

To actively participate in National Make a Difference to Children Month, consider the following suggestions:

• 1. Engage with a child, not limited to your own children, but also with a child you know and whose parents are familiar with you.
• 2. Extend your support to organizations that cater to the needs of children.
• 3. Advocate for policies that prioritize initiatives focused on children by voicing your opinions to policy makers.
• 4. Help raise awareness about National Make a Difference to Children Month by spreading the word.

Source: The Good Men Project "Are You Making a Difference or Are You Making The Difference?".

Resources:

• Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• NAMI Kids, Teens and Young Adults
• Youth and the Juvenile Justice System 2022 National Report (National Center for Juvenile Justice, December 2022)
• Current Funding Opportunities from the Office of Justice Programs (ojp.gov)
• Juvenile Justice (Youth.gov)
• Celebrate National ‘Make a Difference for Children’ Month - Utah Domestic Violence Coalition (udvc.org)