08/29/2026
In March, the asked for community ideas on one question: What would it take for the youth of Smith County to be more connected to one another, their families and their communities without the use of technology? đŹ
We received some truly inspiring answers, and we're excited to share the best of the best with you! Through our 2026 Building Belonging challenge, weâre investing more than $1.98 million in 11 new community partnerships working to create opportunities for young people to connect, engage and build a stronger sense of belonging.
Here are the projects that are bringing the vision to life:
đľ Projects that connect youth to each other by building mentorship, teamwork, friendships and social support networks beyond screens: đąLed by HERO Project, Scouting America, Mentoring Alliance and Tyler Civic Theatre.
đľ Projects that connect youth to their communities through public spaces, cultural institutions and shared experiences: đď¸ Led by City of Tyler Parks and Recreation, Light Up Faulkner Skatepark, East Texas Symphony Orchestra and City of Tyler Urban Forester and Arborist.
đľ Projects that connect communities around youth by strengthening the systems, organizations and networks that shape young peopleâs daily lives: đď¸ Led by Tyler Area Business Education Council, Next Step Community Solutions and Tyler ISD Foundation.
And the work goes beyond funding. Through our new Building Belonging Challenge cohort, partners will come together for peer learning, networking and coaching to strengthen their impact across Smith County.
đ Learn more about our newly funded partners and whatâs ahead: https://healthfoundationet.org/building-belonging-challenge/