The need for mental health support in the community has increased over the years, especially for youth in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I think coming out of COVID and returning to some sort of normal activity, we are still realizing how much of an effect this has had on everybody, especially our kids," said United Way Simcoe Muskoka Relationship Manager, Rosi Martin.
Following the success of their inaugural Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk in Bradford this past winter, United Way Simcoe Muskoka is looking forward to their next big event in support of youth mental health in South Simcoe.
"We wanted to follow up Coldest Night of the Year with something that would be able to speak to the struggles our kids have gone through since COVID and continue to raise awareness to YouthCALL and the initiative here in Bradford," said Martin.
On June 23, UW Simcoe Muskoka will be hosting a screening of the documentary Connecting the Dots, by Toronto filmmaker, Naomi Weis at Green Valley Alliance Church.
Connecting the Dots takes a look at youth mental health from a global perspective, showcasing the real-life experiences of young people from all over the world.
Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion and Q&A with Weis and local mental health advocates to help shed a light on the youth mental health crisis.
"Our hope is that we can shine a light about the supports that are offered here in Bradford and some gaps in the system that the youth may be able to speak to," said Martin. "We want to be able to have an open discussion for people to feel comfortable to tell their stories, to hear other people's stories, to let them know they aren't alone and to be a bit more of a meaningful and engaging call to action."
"It's really just continuing that conversation that we started with Coldest Night of the Year," added Leah Wells, marketing and communications specialist with United Way Simcoe Muskoka. "The documentary does a great job at speaking about it (mental health) from a global perspective but we know this is a very real issue right here where we live, and we want to make sure we are helping to raise awareness, eliminate the stigma and create a dialogue."
Funds raised will be used for local youth mental health supports through YouthCALL Service Link, a live-answer telephone and in-person service that assists vulnerable youth in South Simcoe as they navigate life’s obstacles.
Date: June 23, 2022
Time: Donor Reception – 6 - 6:45 p.m.
Screening & Panel Discussion – 7 - 9 p.m.
Location: Green Valley Alliance Church, 758 Simcoe Rd, Bradford
The event is free to attend, but donations are appreciated. Tickets will be made available through Event Brite online starting May 31.
United Way Simcoe Muskoka is seeking sponsorships from local businesses to help put on the event.
To learn more about sponsorship package options, visit the event website here, and contact Rosi Martin at [email protected] or at 705-726-2301 x2035.
