ZUNI, N.M. — Zuni Youth Enrichment Project recently announced it received a $30,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico’s Blue Impact℠ initiative. The grant will support ZYEP’s year-round programming, which offers activities in art, physical activity, food sovereignty, built environment, connection to land and youth development.
“We are so honored to partner with BCBSNM as our values align. We both aim to support our youth in healthy environments, so they grow into healthy adults. This partnership will demonstrate how, when we come together for the benefit of our kids, the impact is incredible,” said ZYEP Executive Director Tahlia Natachu-Eriacho.
This funding will support staple programs like ZYEP’s sport leagues, family garden, rain harvesting and cooking programs, art apprenticeships, trail work, outdoor recreation, summer camps and after school programs.
ZYEP is committed to facilitating a fun and meaningful experience with positive intergenerational relationships. With these elements, our youth learn healthy habits and develop a sense of belonging to their community and culture, which are the strongest protective factors against things like substance misuse and health disparities.
“ZYEP’s programming for Zuni youth provides an opportunity for youth to build ties to the community,” said BCBSNM President Janice Torrez. “ZYEP’s strength-based programming helps children build resilience and respect for themselves, those around them and the community at large. At BCBSNM, we believe that by investing in the health and wellness of our children, we are creating a better future for all New Mexicans.”
BCBSNM’s Blue Impact grant initiative is part of a commitment to invest in and partner with nonprofits that offer sustainable, measurable programs that address the social and economic factors impacting health and wellness in our communities. Zuni Youth Enrichment Project’s commitment to promoting the resilience of Zuni youth aligns with the vision of Blue Impact to improve health outcomes in communities across New Mexico.
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About Zuni Youth Enrichment Project
The Zuni Youth Enrichment Project is a Native-led, grassroots non-profit 501(c)(3) founded in 2009 by community members committed to enhancing the health of Zuni youth. Since its inception, ZYEP has cultivated broad community support, partnering closely with the Zuni Tribe, cultural leaders, schools, health serving organizations, businesses and other partners to offer programs to over 1,000 local youth each year free of charge. Through a cultural and evidenced based model, ZYEP has developed a series of year-round programs that enhance Zuni youths' health by giving them a deeper connection to their traditions. ZYEP also develops spaces that support healthy activities, including 50+ miles of walking trails, two traditional community gardens and a youth center and park in the heart of Zuni's village.
About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico is one of the largest commercial health insurers in New Mexico with approximately 700,000 New Mexicans carrying a Blue Cross and Blue Shield card. Since 1940, BCBSNM has been committed to promoting the health and wellness of its members and communities through accessible, cost-effective, quality health care. BCBSNM is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation, the country’s largest customer-owned health insurer and fourth largest health insurer overall. Health Care Service Corporation is a Mutual Legal Reserve Company and an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
