For Lisa Byfuglien, Project 11 is more than a curriculum—it’s a way to reach kids early with the tools she wishes every young person had.
Through the Max Foundation’s partnership with True North Youth Foundation, Project 11 offers a free, research-backed mental wellness program to schools across Minnesota. Trainers Angeli and Katrina lead a two-hour online session that walks educators through the lessons and the easy-to-use website.
This year has been a milestone. By October 2025, 665 Minnesota teachers had been trained, reaching an estimated 17,057 students. In August and September alone, 53 new educators came on board from 7–8 schools, including the largest and newest addition, District #181 in Brainerd, MN.
It’s not just classroom teachers signing up. Social workers, student teachers, and even school board members have taken the training so they can better support kids and the staff who work with them.
“One of the best parts,” Lisa says, “is that once you complete the two-hour training, it goes with you. If you change grades or schools, Project 11 goes right along to your next classroom.”
Project 11 also expanded this year with a new trauma-informed curriculum specifically for grades 9–12. Developed with a Canadian trauma specialist and grounded in research reviewed by Healthy Child Manitoba, the updated lessons are designed so teachers can start or pause anywhere without leaving students feeling unsettled. No matter where the class stops, teens are guided back to grounding tools, self-worth, and practical ways to reach out for help — all essential for older students navigating more complex emotions.
As Lisa puts it, “If we can do a little bit of work and touch these kids in Max’s name? Amen.”
Thanks to the Max Foundation, Project 11 remains free to schools. Lisa is continuing to line up future trainings and answer questions for anyone interested in bringing the program to their district.
“Doing nothing is not an option.”
– The Marvin family
