Improving the emotional health and well-being of youth in Allegheny County
Through our work, we understand, educate, advocate for, and amplify the need to address the mental health and well-being of children.
Advocacy
Community
Empowerment
40+
Years of
Impact
Our Mission
ABOUT US
Pittsburgh Child Guidance Foundation’s mission is to improve the emotional health and well-being of children and youth living in Allegheny County by providing grants and collaborating with public and private organizations to implement innovative policies, practices and programs.
To fulfill our mission, the Pittsburgh Child Guidance Foundation collaborates with various nonprofit organizations to support programs and services, conduct research, and engage in initiatives that improve the lives of the most vulnerable children and youth in our region.
Our Motivation
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur while a child is 18 or younger. ACEs can include physical, emotional and/or sexual abuse, violence, neglect, witnessing violence, homelessness, household substance abuse, separation, incarceration, or death of a parent or guardian, and other stressful situations that can destabilize the lives of children and youth. ACEs are often associated with learning and behavior problems that can result in emotional and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and/or antisocial behavior. Studies have proven an association between ACEs and problems in adulthood including chronic health conditions, substance use, and even early death. Sixteen percent of children endure four or more adverse childhood experiences before the age of 18.
A number of strategies can help children overcome ACEs including:
- Promoting safe and stable environments where children feel safe and loved;
- Early intervention programs to detect and address problems before they escalate;
- Support from therapists, counselors, and other trained professionals who provide essential assistance to children and their families;
- Teaching children coping strategies to help build resilience.
Over the decades, the Foundation has provided resources to programs that support children whose parents were incarcerated; and for families with children experiencing homelessness. Currently, the Foundation focuses on developing social and emotional competencies in children and youth.
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