PRC_FallProgramGuide2021_FA

I wish we had a place like Foundry in our community when I was in high school. Looking back, I could have benefited from mental health supports while in high school – having supports like Foundry in our community is huge and the more people hear about the amazing work they are doing, the better. In a society that has been slow to have frank discussions about mental health, how do you think we can demystify the conversation? This is a great question and one that comes up often. As someone who has been clinically diagnosed with general anxiety disorder I remember thinking, I cannot tell anyone as I won’t get promoted or peoplewill look at me differently. Themore open you are and honest with yourself and others, that is when you truly realize the people you want in your sphere of influence and you begin to love yourself, for being you. You can be anxious and still be a loving partner, sister, daughter, auntie and friend. Over the years, the more I share and be vulnerable, the more people are open about their trauma, hardships and are willing to share – we are human, it is time to normalize that.

What piece of advice would you give to someone considering yoga? Do it! It may feel different or hard at first, but I promise you the benefits are worth it. And yoga doesn’t mean having to do handstands or the splits… It simplymeans sitting on your mat and breathing.

90 participants @ Yoga in the Park for Lytton $2300 raised by donation 60+ community events hosted by Chelsea & partners for local charities (so far!)

Be your authentic self and people will love you for you.

Coming together as a community to support (those with mental health illness) so they can feel comfortable to say, “I’m feeling off or down today” or, “today isn’t a good day,” that is what we need to do more of to break this cycle. It is better to express than suppress.

"Be your authentic self and people will love you for you."

When asked about what you’d like to highlight through your story, you said Foundry Ridge Meadows. What about Foundry’s work/purpose resonates with you? Foundry is a province-wide network of integrated health and social service centres for young people ages 12-24. Foundry centres provide a one-stop-shop for young people to access mental health care, substance use services, primary care, social services and youth and family peer supports. Foundry brings health and social services together in a single place to make it easier for young people to find the care, connection and support they need.

NOMINATE FUTURE CHAMPS & LEARN MORE

REGISTER ONLINE AT MAPLERIDGE.CA/1484 OR CALL 604-467-7422.

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