Current Grantees
Awareness Months
On this page we will highlight national awareness months related to mental health and substance use/misuse.
JuLY is National Make A Difference to children month
"A person’s a person, no matter how small." – Dr. Seuss
July is recognized as National Make a Difference to Children Month, an annual observance dedicated to promoting the well-being of children and encouraging collective efforts that support healthy development, resilience, and long-term success. Established in 2006 by child advocate Kim Ratz, this awareness month serves as a reminder that everyone, including families, professionals, organizations, and communities, have a role to play in creating safe, supportive environments where children can thrive.
For children and youth experiencing behavioral health challenges, involvement in the juvenile justice system, or other social and economic adversities, access to positive relationships, mentoring, and supportive services can make a lasting difference. Several USF Criminal Justice, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse Technical Assistance Center (CJMHSA TAC) Reinvestment Grant programs work year-round to improve outcomes for youth by promoting early intervention, recovery, resilience, and community-based supports.
Within the behavioral health field, peer support and youth-centered approaches continue to demonstrate meaningful impact in fostering engagement, hope, and recovery. The Peer Support Coalition of Florida (PSCFL) offers youth resiliency programs designed to strengthen coping skills, build supportive relationships, and empower young people through initiatives such as Mentoring 101, Recovery Planning using the Youth Recovery Capital Scale, and Youth Emotional CPR (eCPR).
Additional resources are available to support children, youth, families, and professionals. The Youth Health Hub from the National Council provides information and tools to improve awareness of youth mental health and substance use while connecting individuals to valuable resources. The American Academy of Pediatrics' Calm Toolbox: Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress offers practical activities to help young people regulate emotions, manage stress, and develop healthy coping strategies.
There are many ways to make a difference during July and throughout the year:
- Spend meaningful time with a child by encouraging learning, creativity, or positive conversation.
- Support organizations and programs that provide services to children and families.
Advocate for policies and initiatives that improve children's health, education, and well-being. - Raise awareness by sharing resources and highlighting the importance of investing in children and youth.
Every positive interaction, supportive relationship, and community investment helps create stronger, healthier futures for children. National Make a Difference to Children Month reminds us that even small acts of kindness and advocacy can have a lasting impact.