POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has announced grants totaling $105,924 which have been awarded through the final round of the County’s Youth Wellness Support Microgrants program. These grants will support six local organizations that build strong well-being and deter young people from developing substance use issues and other destructive behaviors, setting them up for successful, healthy futures as adults.
County Executive Sue Serino said, “As County Executive, I’m proud to collaborate with programs that give our young people the tools they need to succeed and reach their full potential, while supporting their mental health and well-being. These grants are an important investment in their future, funding initiatives that encourage positive growth and help them navigate challenges with confidence. We’re fortunate to have strong partnerships with local organizations that share our commitment to the well-being of Dutchess County’s youth, and together, we’re building a brighter future for our community.”
Projects funded through the third round of the Youth Wellness Support Microgrants program include:
The Art Effect, City of Poughkeepsie, $19,000 – Support the mental health and social literacy training seminar for Spark Studios youth and the creation of a youth-produced animated public service announcement on social media use and mental health.
Lucky Orphans Horse Rescue, Dover, $19,000 – Will offer a unique opportunity for students in need of emotional assistance, mindfulness, self-regulation and wellness; program will provide 16 equine assisted sessions (32 hours total) for groups of select Dover High School students, focusing on ground work with horses while developing wellness tools.
Beatrix Farrand Garden Association, Hyde Park, $19,000 – Organize a 10-week curriculum, reaching 100 young adults, for classes on garden design and African drumming, as well as framework to continue this program.
Dutchess County Pride Center, City of Poughkeepsie, $18,761 – Purchase craft supplies; compensate staff; and provide educational materials that promote healthy coping strategies for managing depression and anxiety, emphasizing alternatives to substance use and the benefits of creative outlets.
Dover Plains Library Association, Dover, $19,000 – Collaborate with Dover Elementary School to host four school assemblies and additional evening programs for parents at the library to foster a sense of connection for students and give parents tools for self-reflection and engagement with their children.
Hidden Hollow Farm Riding, Red Hook, $14,924 – Launch, in collaboration with program partners, a specialized program that offers a new cohort of 15 at-risk youth accessible equine-assisted therapy, including incorporating journaling as a method for social and emotional learning as well as to capture participants' experiences and perceived benefits.
Announced in July 2024, the Youth Wellness Support Microgrants program, funded through opioid settlement funds obtained as a result of litigation against the pharmaceutical industry, funded a total of more than $200,000 in projects from 13 nonprofit organizations, municipalities and grassroots organizations that offer specific programs benefiting youth, with evidence-based wellness activities that help reduce the risk of substance use for children and young adults under age 25.
The first and second rounds of Youth Wellness Support Microgrants were announced in 2024.
