Crotched Mountain Foundation-CMF Kids

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training (YMHFA) is an evidence-based and trauma-informed curriculum developed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing to assess for and mitigate risk of mental health and substance misuse challenges in youth. The goal of the training is to prevent an escalation of mental health and substance misuse challenges and minimize risk of suicide. YMHFA seeks to train professionals and community members who work and interact with youth to provide a first line of defense against mental health and substance misuse crises. Youth will then be referred to higher levels of care as appropriate.

After conducting a mental health needs survey of CMF Kids partners, which identified an overwhelming need for training support amongst professional and paraprofessional staff, CMF Kids invested in the National Council for Wellbeing credentialing of its social work coordinator to facilitate these important trainings. She has worked in community-based services in New Hampshire as a social work case manager for 16 years and wishes to empower and support under resourced communities using a macro social work approach.

CMF Kids utilizes numerous pathways to spread the word about the Youth Mental Health First Aid trainings. We connect directly with school district partners, tap into networks such as North Country Educational Services, promote offerings to our constituents via online and printed materials shared broadly. Trainings will be offered year-round.