Through Art Therapy, Blue Cross and the Boys and Girls Club Help Teens Heal
Blue Cross and the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities are working together to help teens with their mental health. They are using art therapy as a way for young people to express themselves and feel supported.
This project is part of a larger effort by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association to fight the growing youth mental health crisis. Across the country, Blue Cross is investing more than $10 million over four years to bring trauma-informed practices to more than 5,000 Clubs and train 48,000 staff members to better support the emotional well-being of 3.6 million children.
A medium to address mental health
In 2025, teens at the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities said poor mental health was one of their biggest challenges. Many also said it was hard to talk openly with their parents about how they feel.
To help, Blue Cross is also providing free art therapy kits, including resources for parents to guide conversations about mental health. Each kit includes:
- A self-guided book called The Art of Me
- Art supplies
- Mental health resources
The Art of Me book uses creative prompts to help teens reflect, share feelings and build confidence.
It was co-created by artist Jason Daum and art therapist Breanna Bisek, both associates at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota.
“Helping young people build healthy coping strategies early is critical,” said Bukata Hayes, Chief Community Health Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. “Youth are facing big challenges, and now more than ever we must invest in their mental health and healing. We are proud to partner with the Boys and Girls Club to support teens and their families.”
Along with the kits, Blue Cross is partnering with the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia). Each club will take part in a one-day trip to Mia. Teens will enjoy a guided tour and a workshop on art therapy, giving them more tools to manage mental health challenges.
Why art therapy works
Art can be a safe way to explore feelings, especially for teens who may find traditional talk therapy hard.
“Our members say creative expression feels safer and more natural,” said Grace Bettendorf, Annual Fund Manager and Volunteer Program Manager for the Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities.
“Art gives them space to process emotions, build coping skills and gain confidence. It’s not just about creativity—it’s about healing, connection and growth.”
In November, 17 teens from three Twin Cities clubs came together at Mia for the launch of this program.
They connected with each other, shared openly about mental health, and used art as a way to express themselves. More workshops are planned for December and January.
Learn more
To learn more and find creative resources to support your family’s mental health, visit: bcbsmn-forcommunities.com/art-of-being-me
