Number of Participants: 36
Hours Donated: 20
Value of Time Served: $25,049
Event Type: Health & Safety
Activity: Basketball
School: Coon Rapids High School
Date: January 14, 2026
Location:
Coon Rapids High School - Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering
Northdale Boulevard Northwest, Coon Rapids
MN
About:
The Coon Rapids High School girls and boys basketball programs came together to promote student wellness and community connection by hosting a Mental Health Awareness Doubleheader, using the excitement of game night to share a message of support, understanding, and advocacy.
Held during a varsity matchup against Anoka, the event highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health and encouraging open conversations among student-athletes, families, and fans. The initiative was entirely student-driven, showcasing the leadership and creativity of Coon Rapids players who took an active role in planning and executing the awareness efforts.
At the start of the season, the program divided into four committees, each tasked with identifying key areas of community impact and program awareness. While some groups focused on cancer awareness, youth engagement events, and strengthening program traditions such as Senior Night, one committee chose to lead the Mental Health Awareness initiative.
This group coordinated outreach to local mental health professionals and community organizations, including the local police department. They designed awareness T-shirts, launched a social media campaign leading up to the doubleheader, and helped organize educational materials available at the gym entrance for attendees.
Before tip-off, players addressed the crowd with a statement emphasizing the importance of mental health and the need to support one another. Throughout the game, announcements shared helpful information and resources — including the 988 mental health crisis line — all researched and prepared by the student-athletes themselves.
One of the evening’s highlights included a visit from the local police department’s community service officer and K-9, who connected with students and families while reinforcing the importance of community partnerships in supporting youth wellness.
Booster clubs from both programs collaborated to enhance the event atmosphere and ensure meaningful engagement opportunities for fans. The initiative received strong positive feedback both in person and across social media, reflecting the powerful impact of student leadership and shared purpose.
Through their teamwork and commitment to advocacy, the Coon Rapids Cardinals demonstrated how athletic programs can serve as influential platforms for reducing stigma, building empathy, and strengthening school culture. Events like the Mental Health Awareness Doubleheader continue to grow across Minnesota, showing how sports can inspire positive change and create more supportive environments for all students.
