CMHA HKPR Launches Second-Annual 'Change the Cycle' to Raise $25,000 For Mental Health Initiatives

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has launched the second-annual 'Change the Cycle' fundraising event at Nicholls Oval on June 15.

Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education (left) and Ryan Waudby, Tom’s Heating & Cooling president (right) after the latter kickstarted the fundraiser with a $7,000 donation. Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.

This year's funds support Youth and Family Mental Health programming.

“By supporting Change the Cycle, you are supporting youth and family mental health services in our region and ensuring that the mental health needs of our youth and caregivers are met," said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “Youth and caregiver supports are an important factor in fostering a healthier and more supportive community for all.”

Last year, the funds went to CMHA’s Garden Homes Project, an initiative of their Supportive Housing program. It aims to support vulnerable individuals at risk of homelessness in the Peterborough area by providing affordable, small homes.

“This year we changed our focus and we're focusing more on youth and family mental health care,” said Veitch. “Our goal being $25,000 to support the program, to support youth mental health and family caregiver mental health supports.”

While the event raised $40,000 last year, 2024’s goal is $25,000 which Veitch believes can easily be reached. To help kickstart the fundraiser, Tom’s Heating & Cooling donated $7,000.

“I've had a lot of friends that really seen the impacts mentally when our whole country went on lockdown,” said Ryan Waudby, Tom’s Heating & Cooling president. “Seeing that impact literally change them socially, I thought it was important to help out in some way, shape or form. I was presented with this as an opportunity and I took full advantage of it.”

Cyclists can register for a 4k, 12k or 26k ride along the Rotary Trail in Peterborough. They can register online as individuals or teams. Registration is $20 per person, and children 12 and under can register for free. Registration includes the ride, a t-shirt and a BBQ lunch.

To become an event sponsor or volunteer, contact Veitch by emailing him at jveitch@cmhahkpr.ca.

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