Calgary Public Teachers’ Local 38 Donates $10,588 to Mental Health

The Calgary Public Teachers’ Local 38 of the Alberta Teachers’ Association hosted a Games Night at Schänk’s South on Saturday, October 2, 2010 to coincide with World Teachers’ Day.  The purpose of the event was to raise money for the Canadian Mental Health Association-Calgary Region and to engage the public in the great work that teachers do beyond the four walls of the classroom.

The Canadian Mental Health Association-Calgary Region is a leader in reducing the impact of mental disorders and promoting mental health and wellness through community-based services.  Citizens of Calgary can access services such as suicide prevention, community education, family support and education, independent living support, street outreach and stabilization, and workplace mental health services.  Throughout the year CMHA relies on a number of sponsors who fundraise for the association to provide the necessary funding for their continuum of care.  With support from fundraising initiatives, CMHA is able to continue to provide leading edge care to all individuals and families throughout Calgary.

Mental illness, just like physical illness, is part of the human condition.  People of all occupations, income levels, and cultures, regardless of their education or level of success are affected.  At some point in our lives, all Canadians are likely to be affected by a mental illness, either through a family member, a friend, or colleague-or through personal experience.  Through our fundraising efforts, teachers are helping to improve the quality of life for those experiencing mental illness.

Calgary Public Teachers’ Local 38 recognize that volunteering is an excellent way to broaden social support networks and keep your mind active by learning new things and that talking about mental health is a crucial step in reducing the silence and stigma that surrounds mental illness.

Through the Games Night that was held at Schänk’s South, Calgary Public Teachers’ Local 38 was able to raise $10 588.  A silent auction, 50/50 draw, and the generous donations of event attendees enabled Calgary Public Teachers to support the CMHA’s work with the many facets of mental health that affect people in our community.  The event was well attended by our members and well supported through the many contributions that were donated from corporate and community members.  Without the support and grant funding provided by the provincial arm of the Alberta Teachers’ Association, this event would not have been possible.  Calgary Public Teachers wish to thank all of the attendees, donors, and the provincial ATA for their contributions to our campaign for Healthy Minds, Bright Futures.