Pogo & Partners Launch Community Sleep Challenge for Mental Health

In recognition of National Sleep Awareness Month, Pogo — in partnership with SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital - Shawnee, Shawnee Public Schools, and Pioneer Library System — is launching the Pottawatomie County Sleep Challenge, a free initiative designed to help residents build healthier sleep habits and improve overall wellbeing. 

The challenge will run March 8–21, 2026 and is open to all residents of Pottawatomie County.

Sleep plays a critical role in mental and physical health. Adequate sleep is associated with lower stress levels, decreased depression and anxiety symptoms, stronger immune function, improved cardiovascular health, hormonal regulation, and enhanced mood stability. Despite its importance, many people do not consistently get the quality or quantity of sleep needed for optimal health.

“Sleep is a foundational component of mental health,” said Rebecca Damron, Pogo Mental Wellbeing Coalition co-chair. “By equipping residents with practical tools to improve sleep habits, we can make a meaningful impact on overall wellbeing in Pottawatomie County.”

The Pottawatomie County Sleep Challenge supports priorities identified in Pottawatomie County’s Community Health Needs Assessment, particularly around mental health. Approximately 10,705 residents in the county are estimated to need mental health care. One in five survey respondents reported experiencing 11 or more poor mental health days in the past month, and 37% identified increasing access to mental health treatment as a top priority. Untreated mental health conditions are linked to higher healthcare costs, decreased workplace productivity, and reduced quality of life.

Throughout the 14-day challenge, participants will focus on simple, evidence-based practices such as establishing consistent bedtime routines, incorporating daily movement, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake in the evening, and minimizing screen time before bed.

“This challenge is a shared promise to care for ourselves and each other,” said Mike Dominguez, Assistant Superintendent of Shawnee Public Schools. “Let’s prioritize rest, support one another, and build a healthier, more resilient, and more connected community.”

Participants can track their progress using the Wellbeing+ app or by downloading Pogo’s free printable sleep diary. Use of the app is not required to participate. Individuals who complete the challenge will be eligible for prize drawings, including a mattress courtesy of the challenge’s presenting sponsor, Mattress by Appointment.

Use of the Wellbeing+ app is made possible through the generous support and continued partnership of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. 

To encourage widespread participation, Pogo is also offering a free downloadable toolkit that includes posters, sleep diaries, and ready-to-share social media graphics for workplaces, schools, churches, and other community organizations.

To register, download materials, or learn more, visit gopogo.org/sleepchallenge.