Boys & Girls Club Hosts ThriveFest: A Showcase Celebrating Youth Well-Being

Boys & Girls Club of Austin (BGCAA), Texas System of Care (TxSOC), and AISD ACE Austin are collaborating on an event leading up to Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week called, “ThriveFest: A Showcase Celebrating Youth Well-Being.” Youth and families are invited to ThriveFest on Saturday, April 27 from 10 AM to 1 PM at BGCAA’s Home Club on the Sheth Family Campus.  

What can you expect at ThriveFest?

In the past, each organization has organized their own recurring events around mental health, youth empowerment and development, or resource sharing. This year, BGCAA, TxSOC, and ACE will join forces to create a fun, informative festival for young people and their families. Attendees can expect to see live student performances, distinguished speakers from the community, engaging activities, and meet various organizations with tangible mental health resources for families. 

ThriveFest organizers discuss what the fest means to them

“This event marks a special milestone for BGCAA as it’ll be held on the 5th anniversary of the opening of our Sheth Family Home Club, our organization’s headquarters and the largest BGCAA site in Austin serving more than 200 youth daily,” said Zenae Campbell, CEO of BGCAA. “We’re thrilled to celebrate with our friends and partners at TxSOC, ACE Austin, and more, who walk alongside us in the effort to address the mental health needs of youth in our community.” 

Youth mental health was declared a national crisis in 2021, and families continue to struggle with accessing the resources they need for their children. Those who are closest to youth – including parents, caregivers, school staff, or afterschool workers – often don’t have adequate training or access to resources that could help young people with mental health issues. 

“Since 2013, TxSOC has joined people across Texas to celebrate children’s mental health and challenge harmful stigmas that prevent youth from seeking help,” said Dr. Molly Lopez, Director of the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health. “We’re glad to invite impactful mental health organizations and other groups to this event that support youth and their families.” 

“ACE Afterschool programs have served as safe havens for students for over 20 years, offering a supportive environment that reduces stress and promotes well-being,” stated Candice Williams, Project Director of ACE Austin ISD. “Our ThriveFest activities will demonstrate our students’ talent and highlight how afterschool programs can foster growth and self-expression in youth.”  

Will we see you there?

ThriveFest is free and open to the public. They’ll provide food, drinks, and a shuttle service from the Delco Activity Center. Visit thrivefest2024.org to learn more!