Minneapolis, MN – Invincikids, a nonprofit leader in pediatric healthcare innovation, and Cyber Athletix, a sports-tech company focused on athlete wellness and development, today announced a formal partnership to launch the Anchor Points Initiative (API). This groundbreaking program will bring immersive mental wellness and resiliency experiences to young people in both clinical and community settings to reduce anxiety, emotional stress and provide resiliency skill building.
The Anchor Points Initiative combines immersive Virtual Reality (VR) with best-practice evidence-based mental health practices such as mindfulness, solution-focused tools, cognitive behavioral strategies and guided relaxation. The first programs will launch at Children’s Hospitals in Minnesota and Wisconsin, with expansion planned across Invincikids’ global network of 125 clinical partners and community organizations – like YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility – ensuring both clinical and community-based access.
“Invincikids was founded on the belief that all children should have access to supportive, engaging choices to ease their anxiety, pain and support their wellbeing when in clinical or community settings,” said André Bollaert, executive director of Invincikids. “This partnership with Cyber Athletix, Robert Dillingham and YMCA of the North represents an extraordinary opportunity to combine Invincikids’ pediatric healthcare expertise with sports psychology, behavioral wellness and community reach. Together, we are giving kids the tools they need for emotional strength, resilience and healing – whether in a hospital room, gymnasium or on the court.”
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Robert Dillingham, celebrated for his talent on the court and commitment to youth empowerment, will lend his voice and personal experience to the program, inspiring young patients through athlete-led narratives. Cyber Athletix will provide sports psychology expertise and youth engagement strategies, while YMCA of the North will serve as one of the first community partners piloting the program outside hospital settings.
The Anchor Points Initiative will debut at a launch event on Sept. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Douglas Dayton at Gaviidae YMCA in downtown Minneapolis, featuring Robert Dillingham, local leaders, healthcare partners and youth participants. The event will highlight the shared mission of Invincikids and Cyber Athletix and present the opportunity for youth participants to experience the VR technology, as well as participate in Q&A with Robert Dillingham.
For more information about the Anchor Points Initiative or to support this partnership, visit invincikids.org.
WHO: Invincikids and Cyber Athletix, in partnership with Minnesota Timberwolves guard Robert Dillingham and YMCA of the North
WHAT: Anchor Points Initiative launch event
WHERE: Douglas Dayton at Gaviidae YMCA, 651 Nicollet Mall, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55402
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 27, from 1-3 p.m.
- Youth participants will experience the Anchor Points Initiative VR technology and participate in Q&A with Robert Dillingham
About Invincikids
Invincikids is a nonprofit dedicated to transforming pediatric healthcare through immersive technology. We develop custom software and hardware modifications, provide training and implementation support, and distribute free immersive solutions to hospitals and clinics worldwide. Our programs aim to reduce pain, anxiety, and trauma in children by combining clinical research with scalable, compassionate care. To learn more, visit www.invincikids.org.
About Cyber Athletix
Cyber Athletix is a community created by athletes, focused on mental, physical, and emotional wellness beyond the game. Through workshops, athlete-led seminars, and immersive experiences, we provide tools for resilience, peak performance, and balance. Our mission is to empower athletes—of all levels—to train smarter, feel stronger, and thrive in all aspects of life. To learn more, visit www.cyberathletix.com.
About the YMCA of the North
The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 169 years ago, the Y seeks to be the leader in experiences that foster wellbeing for people and communities. By nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and serving our neighbors, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.