A key goal of the project was not only to help educate young Californians about how to understand and work on their mental health but also to engage entire families in a conversation, particularly those from Hispanic communities.

Cultural stigmas relating to mental health understanding and treatment, as well as lack of trust in authority figures like teachers, counselors, and those working in the medical community, are major roadblocks for many people in these communities who are struggling with depression, feelings of isolation, and other mental health challenges. With funding provided by Sutter Health, 3fold worked with HEC to promote its services and activities promoting social connection and improving health outcomes. We did this by writing and illustrating a children's book, the first in what will become a series focused on specific issues experienced by Hispanic youth relating to their mental health and wellness. Written for elementary-age children, the book features the story of Nina, a young Hispanic girl who has begun feeling disconnected from friends and family but doesn't fully understand why she feels this way or how to fix it. Her experiences are mirrored by those of her grandmother, who is struggling with life changes and loss of connection in similar ways. The book explores how connections among children, parents, grandparents, extended family, friends, and community members offer powerful opportunities to boost mental health and well-being. It also specifically uses HEC programs in the storytelling, delivering an engaging tale that encourages families to explore difficult ideas in safe and welcoming conversations, as well as offers real-world opportunities for people to begin their own mental health and community connection journeys.