A Partnership for Prevention: Clarkson Institute Awards $200,000 Grant to Expand Brighter Tomorrows

The Kim Foundation has partnered with Clarkson Institute to address increased mental health challenges and suicide rates for vulnerable populations.

As part of this partnership, Clarkson Institute awarded The Kim Foundation a two-year, $200,000 grant to support suicide prevention through the “Brighter Tomorrows Programming” in the Omaha metropolitan area. This funding will help expand sustainable programming partnerships for long-term impact.

New projects funded by Clarkson Institute include peer-to-peer suicide prevention clubs in Omaha Public Schools and peer support groups for suicide attempt survivors and their caregivers at the Children’s Nebraska Behavioral Health and Wellness Center.

“Our youth are facing a variety of challenges that significantly impact their mental health,” said Molly Mullin Verble, M.Ed., Executive Director of The Kim Foundation. “Together, The Kim Foundation and Clarkson Institute are committed to finding innovative solutions to address service gaps and meet the community’s needs.”

“We’re incredibly proud to support The Kim Foundation and partner with them on such important work,” said Bill Lydiatt, MD, CEO of Clarkson Institute. “Their commitment to suicide prevention and youth advocacy is making a real difference, and it aligns deeply with our mission to help make Nebraska the healthiest state—where every young person has access to the resources and support they deserve.”

Founded in 1869 as Bishop Clarkson Memorial Hospital, Nebraska’s first hospital, Clarkson Institute has evolved from pioneering treatments to leading community programs. Today, Clarkson advances health across Nebraska through grant-making, statewide leadership, and evidence-based initiatives.

The collaboration was highlighted at the Kim Foundation’s Empower Youth Summit, where Clarkson Institute presented its short film “Disconnected” to educate high school students about the risks of using AI for mental health support. TKF staff led a breakout session on youth AI companion tools and their mental health implications.

The film will also be shown at The Kim Foundation’s School Mental Health Conference May 28, followed by a panel discussion with experts on AI companions and mental health trends.

TKF team pictured with Dr. Lydiatt, MD, CEO of Clarkson Institute

Clarkson Regional Health Services dba Clarkson Institute, first founded in 1869, is a nonprofit corporation that supports local healthcare-related initiatives through program development and philanthropic support. For more information, visit clarksoninstitute.org.