Three hockey teams, the Bismarck Bobcats, UND Fighting Hawks, and the Fargo Force, have successfully raised $24,000 for the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation. This fundraising effort will enable the foundation to promote mental health research and curriculum in rural areas.
The money raised will specifically support a program called Sources of Strength, which will benefit four school districts in the northeastern corner of the state. Sources of Strength is designed to help schools implement mental health services and curriculum that will provide students with the necessary tools to navigate life’s challenges successfully.
Amber Blomberg, the executive director of BCBSND Caring Foundation, emphasized the importance of teaching students that everyone faces difficulties and needs to learn healthy coping mechanisms. The goal of the program is to ensure that both youths and adults have the resources they need to overcome obstacles and thrive in all aspects of life.
Overall, the collaboration between the hockey teams and the Caring Foundation will have a positive impact on mental health education in rural communities, ultimately empowering individuals to lead healthier, more resilient lives.