The Hogensons’ Mission to Support Youth Mental Health
For Andy and Stephanie Hogenson, supporting youth mental health services by donating to YES has become a personal mission. About ten years ago, the couple learned that Bellevue High School had partnered with local nonprofit YES to provide counseling for students struggling with mental health challenges. With a blended family that has struggled with mental health issues, Stephanie and Andy understand the challenges.
“We know how it is to match kids with good professional care due to wait lists, insurance issues, scheduling conflicts, and more. When our children are in crisis, there is nothing more important than getting the help they need.”
This understanding motivated the Hogensons to get involved with YES. After attending several of the organization’s annual fundraising breakfasts and hearing firsthand the impact they were having, they knew this was the right fit for them.
Tragically, the couple’s oldest son, Matt, passed away last May from a combination of mental health issues and addiction.
“We often reflect back and wish we had better information and support sooner. We want to ensure other families don’t have to go through what we did.”
The Hogensons believe youth mental health is a critical, growing issue. They believe that the way kids socialize today can have devastating effects on their self-esteem, anxiety, and even their safety. Because of this, they are passionate about supporting organizations like YES that meet children and young people where they are, regardless of ability to pay, and can provide a critical lifeline to better mental health.
“Our kids are in crisis, and the existing mental healthcare system is overtaxed. It’s going to take strong community support to change these disturbing trends.”
Join Andy and Stephanie in supporting children, youth, and families by donating today! Each gift, whether it’s $5 or $500, makes a significant impact on the lives of youth.
And now you can give something youth can count on by making a monthly donation to YES. A monthly gift is the most convenient and effective way to provide consistent help to children, youth, and families in our community. It’s also budget and inflation-friendly.
