Building Strong Minds: Thank You to the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation

Posted on Sep 25, 2026 by


We are thrilled to announce a generous $50,000 gift from the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation to support and expand our social emotional learning (SEL) and youth mental health programming at the Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac.

A dedicated partner since 2015, the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation has now contributed over $250,000 to our Club’s mission.

“This gift is an investment in the emotional well-being and future of our community’s young people,” says Mason Gravelle, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation Philanthropy Director. “The Boys & Girls Club has demonstrated measurable, meaningful outcomes through its SEL programs, and we’re proud to continue supporting work that helps young people feel safe, connected, and empowered to succeed.”

We launched our SEL programming in spring 2021 to address rising mental health needs and long waitlists for traditional therapeutic care. Our Club acts as a vital bridge, offering immediate access to coping skills, safe spaces, and family support resources.

In 2022, funding from the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation allowed us to add a second full-time Mental Health Coordinator. This latest gift sustains that crucial role and expands vital resources—such as our Zen Dens, Comfort Closet, and key partnerships with Fondy Cares and SSM Health Behavioral Health.

“We are incredibly grateful for their continued belief in what this program makes possible,” shares Dan Hebel, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Fond du Lac. “This investment helps ensure young people have trusted adults, safe spaces, and support when they need it most.”

Measured Impact

Since adding our second coordinator, program engagement and outcomes have soared:

  • 80% of members now report optimal emotional safety, up from 37% before the program began.

  • Members report significantly higher scores in adult connections, sense of belonging, and overall Club experience.

  • Zen Den utilization, youth support connections, and family referrals remain consistently high.

Together with the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation, we are proactively building youth resilience and support networks before mental health needs become crises.

Community partnerships make our mission possible, but our daily work depends on compassionate individuals like you. Every child deserves a safe place to learn, grow, and heal.

Get Involved Today

  • Donate: Help us keep our mental health programs and daily resources free and accessible to every child who walks through our doors. Click Here to Make a Donation

  • Volunteer: Become a mentor or a trusted adult in a young person’s life by giving a few hours of your time each month. Learn About Volunteer Opportunities

  • Share Our Story: Pass this article along to friends, family, and colleagues to spread awareness about youth mental health in Fond du Lac!

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