CHEYENNE, WYO – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming Caring Foundation recently made a $100,000 grant to support the statewide launch of Jae Boots for High School seniors, an initiative aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health struggles by fostering thoughtful, ongoing conversations. The program created by the Jae Foundation provides high school seniors with a unique experience and a pair of cowboy boots, symbolizing the importance of regular “boot check” moments—emotional check-ins with friends and loved ones.
Jae Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention, started the high school senior boot program to create safe spaces for conversations about mental health. These check-ins are particularly important for high school seniors during a transitional time in life when Jae Foundation believes it is critical for young people to feel valued and supported.
Born from the belief that if Jae’s friend Jason had slowed down to have a real conversation and gift his buddy a pair of boots, it could have made a difference and saved Jae’s life. Jae Boots are inspired by the love Jae Bing had for cowboy boots and serve as both a reminder and conversation starter.
“Our long-term goal is to get Jae Boots on every senior, every year, in every county in Wyoming,” announced Jason Vickory, founder of Jae Foundation, during an event at the University of Wyoming.
With roots in Pinedale, high school seniors from the area have been getting their Jae boots for several years now. The BCBSWY Caring Foundation contribution will help expand the reach of the High School Senior Boot Initiative, supplementing local efforts.
Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Cheyenne-based Cowboy Cole Foundation, schools in Laramie County School District #2 recently got their Jae Boots for the second time (see photos attached from 9/23), and supporters in Sweetwater County have been fundraising to help area high school seniors get their Jae boots. These local efforts can now leverage the funds provided by the BCBSWY Caring Foundation grant to bring this experience to their community.
“It’s an incredible start to the school year and highlights literal boots on the ground efforts to support suicide prevention,” shared Diane Gore, President and CEO of BCBSWY. “In Wyoming, we pride ourselves on finding unique solutions and we’re proud to support Jae Boots for high school seniors.”
Various organizations in Natrona County have also joined the effort, ensuring seniors in the area can participate. “Cowboy boots aren’t cheap, but with every pair of Jae Boots comes a conversation and commitment that can change and save lives,” shared Julie Mackey, WY Outreach Coordinator.
“We’re doing our part to get behind the work outlined in Governor Gordon’s Wy We Care Behavioral Health reform report, and we encourage others to join this effort,” Gore said. She added, “The Senior Boot Initiative aligns with the Governor’s message, that ‘we must come together in our homes, our schools, our faith-based communities, businesses, and clubs—to make it clear, it’s okay not to be okay.’”
The Senior Boot Initiative exemplifies the power of community collaboration. With continued support from businesses, foundations, clubs, and individuals, the Senior Boot Initiative is poised to make a lasting impact. By working together, we can empower Wyoming’s youth to prioritize their mental well-being, encouraging conversations that can change—and save—lives.
For more information about the Senior Boot Initiative and how to get involved, visit High School Senior Boots – Jae Foundation or contact Julie Mackey at julie@jaefoundation.com.
About Jae Foundation: At Jae Foundation, the mission is to get as many Jae Boots to as many people as possible. Everything the foundation does is to further the mission to prevent suicide. Jae Foundation is a non-profit organization headquartered in Twin Falls, ID with an additional location in Pinedale, Wyoming. Jae Foundation boldly serves everyone who may need space for healing and open to a conversation. Learn more at JaeFoundation.com.
About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming (BCBSWY), a not-for-profit health insurer and an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, provides access to high quality health care coverage, services and programs to help our members make the best health care decisions and get the best care. With 9 locations across Wyoming, we provide hometown service to residents and businesses while serving people and charitable organizations in communities around the state. Learn more about us at BCBSWY.com.
About Blue Cross Blue Shield Caring Foundation of Wyoming: As a caring community, BCBSWY has been involved in promoting the good health and well-being of Wyoming residents by participating in and contributing to many health-related charities and causes. In 1990, BCBSWY established the Caring Foundation of Wyoming to help sustain this mission. The Caring Foundation of Wyoming focuses its grantmaking to support Wyoming-based nonprofit organizations.
BCBSWY Contact:
Abbey Palma
307.432.2709
abbey.palma@bcbswy.com
Jae Foundation Contact:
Julie Mackey
Julie@jaefoundation.com