Once Upon a Playhouse: Building More Than Play, We Are Supporting Youth Mental Health
Every summer for the past 19 years, something special begins to take shape across Rochester. It starts with lumber, tools, and creativity and ends with something much bigger than a playhouse. Once Upon a Playhouse is more than a fundraiser for Family Service Rochester. It’s a powerful example of what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose: supporting youth mental health.
A Community Effort That Builds Support
At the heart of this event there is an incredible partnership with the Rochester Area Builders, local builders, sponsors, and Sargent's. Local builders generously donate their time, talent, and materials to design and construct one-of-a-kind playhouses. Each one is unique and crafted with care, creativity, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
These playhouses are then raffled off to lucky winners, turning craftsmanship into impact.
Learning Skills and Supporting Mental Health
An important and meaningful layer of this initiative this year is the partnership with John Adams Middle School who is one of our builders.
In this one of a kind after school program, students are introduced to the trades where they are learning hands-on construction skills, teamwork, and problem-solving. At the same time, they are part of something bigger: a project that directly supports youth mental health in their own community.
It’s a powerful combination where they build confidence, practical skills, and awareness that Mental Health Matters.
Smooth Summer Nights at Sargent’s
We’re also grateful for our partnership with Sargent's Gardens, who host the playhouses at their locations throughout the summer.
Join us for Sargent’s Smooth Summer Nights where you can and see the playhouses in person. Let your kids check them out and assure they are “kid approved”.
Connect with our team at any one or all Event Dates:
June 9
July 14
August 11
These evenings are a chance to enjoy the season and be part of something meaningful. They offer food and drink trucks, live music and the playhouses all sitting in their beautiful outdoor nursery among the plants, trees and shrubs. It's truly magical.
Why This Matters: Growing Youth Mental Health Needs
The need for youth mental health support continues to grow:
- 1 in 5 children experience a mental health condition each year
- Rates of anxiety and depression among youth have significantly increased in recent years
- Many families face barriers to accessing care, including cost and availability
- At Family Service Rochester, we see this need every day.
How Your Support Makes a Difference
Funds raised through Once Upon a Playhouse help:
- Expand access to mental health services for children and teens
- Provide care regardless of ability to pay
- Bridge gaps where insurance may not fully cover services
- Support families navigating complex challenges
This work is deeply aligned with our mission: ensuring that individuals and families in our community have access to the care and support they need to thrive.
There Are Many Ways to Be Part of this incredible community event.
Whether you’re hoping to win a playhouse or simply want to support youth mental health, there’s a place for you:
- Buy a raffle ticket: Raffle ticket sales run Memorial Weekend through August 11. Drawing will be held August 11
- Visit us at Sargent’s Smooth Summer Nights
- Make a direct donation on our website.
Take the First Step: For You or Your Family
If your child, teen, or family could benefit from support, you don’t have to wait. Family Service Rochester currently has current openings for mental health services. Call 507-287-2010 to schedule an appointment or learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be present to win?
No, winners will be contacted directly.
When can I buy raffle tickets?
Tickets are available from Memorial Weekend through August 11.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are on sale all summer at Family Service Rochester north and south office locations and Sargent's north and south nursery locations during hours of operation
When is the drawing?
The raffle drawing will take place on August 11.
Where can I see the playhouses?
Playhouses will be displayed at Sargent’s North and South locations from Memorial Weekend-August 11th and featured on our website and social media.
Can I donate instead of buying a ticket?
Absolutely. Donations of any amount directly support youth mental health services.
Where can I learn more or see photos?
Visit our website or follow us on social media for updates and pictures.
Once Upon a Playhouse is more than a fundraiser, it’s a reflection of what’s possible when a community comes together to support its youth.
