The 4th annual Walk for Courage event to support mental health and suicide prevention through CMHA Grey Bruce is expanding this year.
Don Vail, Communications and Fund Development Manager with CMHA Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addictions Services, says the walk was launched in honour of Jeff Courage, who died by suicide in 2019.
"It did start in memory of Jeff, who died by suicide in 2019. It was organized by his parents a couple of years later, Greg and Tawnia, and it was in partnership with us here at CMHA to raise awareness and support for local mental health programs," Vail pointed out.
Initially held just in Owen Sound, the event will expand to Hanover this year at the Sulphur Springs Conservation Area. Vail says the event has become a positive reinforcement of mental health importance.
"Mental health and suicide can be hard to talk about, but the Walk for Courage creates a space where people can come together, with openness. We're not just walking in memory of someone we've lost, we're walking to support the people still here who need to know that they matter," Vail emphasized.
The walks in Hanover, Owen Sound and a new virtual option, will be held July 19. There will also be an online auction with loads of different items that will be announced closer to the event.
Vail says despite the heavy subject matter, the annual walk is a very positive event.
"The energy at the walk is incredible. People walk for their friends, their families and their own well-being. Yes, we're walking for a serious reason, but the day is anything but sad. It's uplifting, it's supportive and it shows how powerful community can be when we all have hope," said Vail.
Funds raised from the annual walk all go towards the numerous programs offered by CMHA.
"Our early education for kids, teen support programs, the athletic wellness program, adult and workplace mental health training. Also crisis response training, we have different programs and courses such as Safe Talk and Assist, which can help you see signs of someone struggling, and give you some tools to help that person," Vail detailed.
Information on registering yourself or a team or how to donate to the 5km walks on July 19 can be found at WalkForCourage.com.
"We are blown away by how this walk continues to grow each year," said Greg Courage in a CMHA press release for the event. "It’s a way to keep Jeff’s memory alive and help others in our community who are struggling. We’re grateful to everyone who walks with us."
There are already a number of generous local sponsors for the event. To become a sponsor, visit greybruce.cmha.ca/walksponsor.