SSM Health is investing in the health and well-being of local youth through a $5,000 community health gift to Badgerland Youth for Christ (YFC), supporting programs that provide mentorship, connection, and critical resources for young people across Fond du Lac and surrounding communities.

Badgerland Youth for Christ serves hundreds of middle and high school students each week through mentoring relationships, youth centers, and focused programs that help young people navigate some of life’s most complex challenges, including mental health concerns, homelessness and school disruptions.

“At SSM Health, we are committed to improving the health of the communities we serve, and that includes supporting the next generation,” according to Laura Nakielski, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac community health manager. “We are grateful for the work that Badgerland Youth for Christ is doing to support young people in our communities, and we’re excited to see how their programs continue to grow and make a meaningful difference.”

Through their faith-based programs – such as Parent Life, Juvenile Justice Ministry, City Life and Campus Life – YFC focuses on mentorship and consistent engagement with caring adults – an approach shown to positively impact youth mental health and overall well-being.

“Young people today face increasing challenges, especially when it comes to mental health and feeling connected,” according to Ron Riemersma, YFC executive director. “This support from SSM Health helps us continue to show up for students every week, walking alongside them and helping them build resilience, confidence and hope for the future.”

The organization’s programs are rooted in strong community partnerships and provide structured activities, one-on-one mentoring and group support opportunities designed to help youth grow socially, spiritually, emotionally, and academically.

“Partnerships like this allow us to expand access to programs that create a sense of belonging and stability for young people,” Nakielski adds. “When youth have trusted adults in their lives, the impact on their health can be truly life changing.”

Badgerland Youth for Christ reaches youth across Fond du Lac, Waupun, Beaver Dam and several other communities, providing safe spaces where students can build relationships with caring adults and peers.

“We are incredibly grateful for SSM Health’s support,” Riemersma says. “This gift strengthens our ability to meet students where they are, provide consistent mentorship and ensure they know they are not alone.”

Through this investment, SSM Health continues its commitment to strengthening community partnerships and addressing priority health needs, including youth mental health – helping build healthier futures for individuals and families across the region.

Laura Nakielski (center), SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac community health manager, presents a $5,000 community health gift to Badgerland Youth for Christ representatives, including (left to right) Ron Riemersma, executive director; Joel Screnock, juvenile justice ministries director; Krista Koester, parent life director; and Allie Riemersma, campus life director.

Date posted: June 8, 2026