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Rotary Club hosting Run4Youth for mental health

July 2, 2021   ·   0 Comments

The Rotary Club of Alliston is pleased to announce the launch of its latest fundraising event, the Run4Youth, South Simcoe.

This is a community participation event whose goal is to raise funding for youth mental health, which has suffered greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns.

Net proceeds from the event will go to support the important work of two organizations serving at-risk youth in South Simcoe: New Path Youth & Family Services and Youth Haven.

“The pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health of young people,” explained Louise Jones, Director of Fund Development at Youth Haven. “Through our helplines, we are witnessing increased stress, anxiety and depression in young people as a result of the current crisis. Social isolation, the disruption of routine, health fears, and families under duress are all factors that are leading to increased mental health challenges, especially during an already vulnerable time of their life.”

George Scott, President of the Rotary Club of Allison, outlined the virtual program.

“Run4Youth, South Simcoe invites people of all ages to run, walk, hike or bike any distance they choose on any day or days between the 1st of July and the 30th of September,” he said. “They can raise pledges from friends and business associates to support their efforts or make their own donations. Anyone raising $200 or more will earn a swag bag of goodies and all participants receive an event reflective wristband.

“We invite every resident of South Simcoe to join in. You’ll not only be showing your support for the community, outdoor exercise is a great way to relieve pressure and stress. To register, buy your ticket for as little as $15, or $30 for a family, with group discounts also available, at runforyouth.ca. And go to www.Strava.ca to download the app and search under Clubs for Run4Youth South Simcoe to engage with other participants and track your progress.”

The title sponsor for the event is Flato Developments Inc., a community-focused home builder with current projects in Beeton, Markham, Caledon, Brampton and Dundalk. Also sponsoring are Ryan Design, The Gibson Cultural Centre, The Alliston Lions Club, Debbie Hudson of TD Wealth, FLATO HOME,

Trillium Ford Lincoln of Alliston and Shelburne, CPK Accounting of Alliston and Youth Beyond Enterprises, a not-for-profit in Angus serving young entrepreneurs.

Rotary members Dave Green and Sue Leach of Alliston are also generous donors.

Assisting the Rotary Club with co-promotion of the event are these Partners: Tottenham and Beeton District Chamber of Commerce; the Town of New Tecumseth; Community Living Association for South Simcoe; Barrie Navy League; The Gibson Cultural Centre; and Y Media Group.

“We are so honoured and thankful for the support of The Rotary Club of Alliston. This event will raise much needed funds for child and youth mental health in south Simcoe County,” said Elizabeth McKeeman, CEO of New Path Youth & Family Services. “Support from local organizations fills the gaps in funding for life-changing mental health services. This support couldn’t come at a better time. Right now, the need for child and youth mental health services is so great. Gifts like this further ensure that children, youth and their families can continue to access timely and responsive mental health services when and where they need them.”

This event has a special connection for Rotary member Patricia Middlebrook.

“As a grandmother facing the challenges of a grandchild with mental health issues, I am so grateful for the support shown by the many sponsors and community partners for the Run4Youth, South Simcoe event,” she said. “I know how important it is for a young person dealing with anxiety, depression or uncontrollable behavioural issues to have access to treatment. New Path and Youth Haven provide a lifeline for youth facing their personal mental issues, as well as support for their families.

“I want to send a personal Thank You to all those who sign up for this event. You are helping make a young person’s future a little brighter.”

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