IMPACTFUL FUND
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Mission Statement
When We Change Social Norms, We Change Outcomes. Impactful Networks: A Nationwide Mental Health Education Movement Supporting Stories That Improve The Human Condition. We believe every student and their family should have free access to mental health education. It is foundational to physical health, academic achievements, relationships, trust and safety. Founded in 2011 Impactful Fund (formerly IndieFlix Foundation), provides no-cost film and science-backed mental health and wellness education programs, teacher training and parent education in schools and underserved communities nationwide.
About This Cause
Our latest program: Impactful Networks: From Education to Action—Building a Sustainable Culture of Connection and Well-Being. Impactful Networks integrates two evidence-based programs—Creative Coping Toolkit (CCT) and Networks of Support—to transform mental health practices in schools and communities. By combining film-driven learning, interactive discussions, and in-person mentorship, we empower schools to take ownership of student and staff well-being. Why This Matters Our social network health approach delivers key protective factors—like strong relationship bonds, adaptive coping, and positive group norms—to entire school communities. By connecting trained adults to multiple students, we foster meaningful connections that reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking behaviors, and ultimately save lives. Grounded in Leading Research Since 2010, Tim McGowan has worked closely with University of Rochester researchers Dr. Peter Wyman, Dr. Anthony Pisani, and Bryan Yates to develop this network-based strategy for schools and specialized environments (e.g., the U.S. Air Force, law enforcement). This collaboration provides our trainers and school partners with cutting-edge, often unpublished research—ensuring our content remains effective, current, and uniquely adaptable to local needs. Peer Network Success: Dr. Wyman’s NIH- and CDC-funded studies in 78 schools (nearly 40,000 students) demonstrated that improving social cohesion and coping skills via peer networks can reduce suicide deaths. Military Application: Implemented by the Air Force through the Wingman-Connect program, this approach builds group cohesion, belonging, and healthier coping. It’s now scaling across the entire Air Force due to its effectiveness. Evidence-Based Implementation Impactful Networks uses Dr. Nicole Morgan’s Common Components Analysis (CCA) framework, focusing on four elements—content, process, barrier reduction, and sustainability. By reducing stigma and negative beliefs about seeking help, we improve program utilization and overall well-being. Ecological Validity Our grassroots model is built with and for each unique community, making it culturally relevant and better positioned for long-term success. Students and educators learn and practice new skills together in the real-world settings where they’ll use them—ensuring the lessons truly stick. Film and Storytelling: The Heart of Engagement A key differentiator of Impactful Networks is Creative Coping Toolkit (CCT)—our film-based program that children, parents, and educators find relatable and engaging. These real-life stories spark meaningful conversations, helping participants internalize skills they can apply immediately. By layering multiple touchpoints—such as follow-up discussions, mentorship, and ongoing practice—we maintain “ecological validity” and guard against the “voltage drop” that often stalls new initiatives. The result is a steady path toward self-sustaining growth in both individuals and entire school communities. What We Address -Anxiety & Loneliness – Teaching self-regulation, resilience, and help-seeking. -Bullying & Online Safety – Promoting digital citizenship and social-emotional awareness. -Connectedness & Belonging– Strengthening peer relationships and adult support networks. -Mental Health Literacy– Equipping educators, students, and parents to recognize and respond effectively to challenges. Enhancing Existing Programs Our adaptable approach integrates seamlessly with school-based programs, community mental health initiatives, and SEL frameworks: 1. Engaging Content – Film-based learning that captures attention and prompts deeper discussions. 2. Hands-On Process – In-person training and peer mentorship to bolster counselor efforts, teacher-led programs, and community support. 3. Barrier Reduction – Targeted strategies that reduce stigma and negative beliefs around getting help, boosting program participation. 4. Sustainability & Capacity Building – Equipping schools with the tools to maintain and expand well-being initiatives for the long term. Proven Impact Schools that have implemented Impactful Networks report: - Higher Attendance and Graduation Rates - Improved Academic Achievement - Reduced Discipline Issues and Negative Coping Skills - Fewer Suicides and stronger help-seeking behaviors - More Trusted Adult Connections across the school community These outcomes create safer, more connected, and healthier school cultures—where every student feels seen, supported, and ready to thrive. Through authentic community partnerships, research-backed tools, and engaging real-world practice, Impactful Networks transforms mental health education—one classroom at a time. Community Partners We work with community partners such as Networks of Support, NAMI, University of Washington, Forefront, Screentime Action Network, Commonsense Media, Lurie Children’s Hospital, Child Mind Institute, Stanford Compassion Institute, Healthy Minds, Meadows Mental Health, David's Law, Thrive Australia, Anna Freud Institute, Jack.org, Perception Institute and many more. We raise funds from family offices, corporate matching and giving, private foundations, state funding and generous individual donors. It's worth noting that we have successfully implemented this program in thousands of schools globally and in over 7,000, K-12 public school campuses throughout the state of California and are now in our fourth year https://www.calhopeschools.org/angst. We appreciate your consideration to support our youth and their families. They are our future. With deep gratitude, Impactful Fund