I am riding in the Berry Architecture Community Wellness Ride on August 10th, 2019! This is a 100 kilometer bike ride, in support of two worthwhile charities (and of me getting some exercise). The charities, Canada Mental Health Association, and Alberta Brain Injury Society, are described below.We are hoping to raise over $100,000 this year, which works out to about $200 per rider.
Please consider donating any amount you can spare.
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1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental health or addiction problem, and by age 40, 1 in 2 have had or are dealing with mental illness[1]. This number is similar in Alberta[2]. It is also the leading cause of disability in Canada[3,4]. A gap analysis found that 48% of individuals suffering (over 300,00 adults) reported unmet needs, and that mental health services are reactive and acute, as opposed to preventive[2].
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a voluntary health organization and champion of mental health, improving accessibility to mental health services, community integration, build, and recovery support for mental illness. It’s programs include Peer Support Canada, Workforce Mental Health, and Not Myself Today. It is run by over 10,000 volunteers and staff, and relies on corporate and public donations to operate.
Central Alberta Brain Injury Society raises awareness and education through initiatives like the Traveling Brain School and caregiver courses. It provides support for individuals and their families who are living with a traumatic or acquired brain injury. It provides these services for no cost, as a result of the beneficial donations it receives.