About Us
The donation is the largest in the organization’s history and will expand mental health education for children and families in Minnesota amid escalating need for mental health supports
The Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health (MACMH) is celebrating their largest-ever donation in the organization’s history. The recent anonymous $1 million contribution has nearly doubled MACMH’s annual budget and will support their work providing mental health education and resources to families, professionals and youth throughout Minnesota.
“We are incredibly humbled and grateful for this unexpected gift,” Brandon Jones, MACMH Executive Director, said. “It comes at a time when the need is high, and we can’t wait to put it to work on behalf of children and families.”
Since the start of the pandemic, rates of mental health challenges have soared among children and adolescents. “While rates of depression and anxiety were increasing prior to 2020 –– the pandemic, along with ongoing social unrest and increased economic strain, have exacerbated the stress and trauma many youth are experiencing,” Jones said.
The anonymous donor named one MACMH program in particular. Fidgety Fairy Tales – The Mental Health Musicals combine familiar stories, great music and gentle humor to help kids and grown-ups have important conversations about mental health. Performed by talented actors ages 10 – 18 and created by professional theatre artists Matt Jenson and Marya Hart, Fidgety Fairy Tales tours to schools, libraries, theatres and community organizations throughout Minnesota.
Ruby Karason, 17, has been an actor in Fidgety Fairy Tales since she was 10 years old. “I’ve really found a family with everyone I perform with. I believe this program can help educate people of all ages. I like being a part of a show that is so open to new and positive ideas about mental health.”
With support from the new funding, Fidgety Fairy Tales will celebrate its 15th anniversary with a return to touring performances, increased staffing and innovative new programming.
“As we celebrate this generous and historic donation, we are deeply thankful for the partners who support us as a leading organization in children’s mental health and who strengthen our efforts to promote optimal mental health for families across Minnesota and beyond,” Jones said.
Check out the exciting things Fidgety Fairy Tales has in store thanks to this generous donation
+ A Return to Touring Performances Across Minnesota
Click here to book a performance for our 2022-2023 season
+ Microgrant Opportunities
To support in-house productions of Fidgety Fairy Tales at schools, theatres and churches throughout Minnesota and across the country. The call for applications opens November 1.
+ More exciting updates coming soon!
About the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health
The Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health (MACMH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides education and resources to families, professionals and youth throughout Minnesota and beyond. We promote positive mental health for all infants, children, adolescents and their families.