Pawnee Mental Health Receives $10,000 Grant Support for S.T.A.R.S. Camp

Pawnee Mental Health has received a $10,000 grant from The Butler Family Community Foundation to support S.T.A.R.S. Camp, a specialized summer program for children living with severe emotional disturbances (SED).

The Butler Family Community Foundation awarded the funding to help expand access to critical mental health programming for youth throughout Pawnee Mental Health’s service area.

“The Butler Family Foundation is proud to support S.T.A.R.S. Camp. We believe in the power of education and social-emotional learning. This camp offers youth a unique opportunity to experience all that away camp offers: joy, cooperation, novel experiences, physical and mental fitness and more. Pawnee offers an experience that others do not: empowerment for young people struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges. We hope it continues for years to come.” — Brenda Butler

Now celebrating its 24th year, S.T.A.R.S. Camp helps children build Strength, Teamwork, Attitude, Relationships and Self-Esteem through structured activities, therapeutic support and skill-building experiences designed to promote emotional growth and resilience.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of The Butler Family Community Foundation,” said Shelli Schottler, director of community services at Pawnee Mental Health. “Their generosity helps ensure children with complex behavioral health needs have access to a safe, supportive camp experience where they can build confidence, develop healthy coping skills and create lasting connections.”

Funding will help cover program costs, including staffing, transportation, lodging, meals and therapeutic activities, ensuring children can attend camp at no cost to their families.