CMHA Calgary World Mental Health Day Luncheon: Raising Funds and Spreading Awareness for Workplace Mental Health

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On October 10, 2024, CMHA Calgary proudly welcomed over 50 guests to our World Mental Health Day Luncheon, held at the CMHA Calgary Welcome Centre. This special gathering focused on the critical issue of mental health in the workplace and raised over $5,300 through ticket sales, silent auctions, sponsorships, and donations. Beyond the fundraising success, this event marked the first time in years that we welcomed a corporate fundraising crowd into our space, creating new connections and fostering conversations about mental wellness in the workplace.

The luncheon was more than just a fundraiser—it was an opportunity to educate our guests on the importance of workplace mental health. Attendees participated in a mini-workplace mental health education session and were moved by the personal story shared by Recovery College alumnus Natalie Stokner, whose journey of overcoming mental health challenges served as a powerful reminder of why our services are so crucial. Natalie’s words resonated deeply with everyone in the room, offering a firsthand perspective on the impact of mental health support, both personally and professionally.

We want to extend a special thanks to our sponsors—Westin Downtown Hotel, UKG, and Exchanger Industries—whose support made this event possible. Our Board members, who supported us in person or through donations, and our dedicated volunteers, who ensured the event ran smoothly, also deserve recognition for their unwavering dedication.

Supporting Workplace Mental Health: Workshops and Training

At CMHA Calgary, we believe that mental health is about achieving personal balance—and finding that balance can be a learning process. That’s why we offer a variety of mental health education workshops and training programs for adult groups, community organizations, and workplace settings. Our goal is to help participants develop a strong understanding of mental well-being, enabling them to foster healthier, more balanced lives.

We offer both virtual and in-person workshops, which are typically delivered in 60-minute sessions but can be tailored to suit your schedule. Topics include:

  • Stress Management and Healthy Coping: Learn strategies to manage stress at work, home, and in life, with an overview of the stress response and its effects on the body and mind.
  • Mental Health Awareness: Break down common misconceptions about mental health and adopt a preventative approach to mental well-being.
  • Suicide Prevention: A compassionate discussion on suicide, dispelling myths, outlining warning signs, and connecting participants to resources.

Each workshop is available for a standard fee of $250 and provides valuable insights that can help improve mental health in workplace environments.

Peer Ambassador Training: “Connector Certified”

In addition to our workshops, CMHA Calgary offers Peer Ambassador Training for workplaces and community groups. Our “Connector Certified” program trains internal supporters, or “connectors,” who will be equipped to assist others by understanding the ethics, limits, and boundaries of helping. Throughout their 14 hours of training, connectors learn effective communication, healthy coping strategies, how to refer individuals to professional services, and the importance of self-care.

The Connector Certified program is customizable, with flexible delivery options ranging from two full days to several shorter sessions. The program is available for a fee of $3,500 and is designed to build strong internal peer support systems in any organization.

Facilitators and Booking Information

CMHA Calgary’s workplace facilitators are experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge from various backgrounds. Each facilitator is trained in the principles of adult learning, cultural awareness, and diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every workshop and training session is engaging and accessible to all participants.

To continue offering high-quality content and reinvesting in our programs, we charge standard fees for all services. Workshops and training programs must be booked and paid for in advance, with bookings confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information on booking a workshop or training session, please contact us at education@cmha.calgary.ab.ca. 

Make Mental Health a Priority in Your Workplace

The importance of mental health in the workplace cannot be overstated. A healthy, supportive work environment leads to happier employees, better productivity, and reduced absenteeism. At CMHA Calgary, we’re here to help businesses and organizations make mental health a priority through our workshops and training programs.

Explore our Workplace Mental Health Resources and take the first step toward creating a mentally healthy workplace. Together, we can build a culture of well-being that benefits everyone.

As we continue to reflect on the success of our World Mental Health Day Luncheon, we’re reminded of the power of community and the importance of workplace mental health.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, donated, and supported our mission.

With your help, we’re making a lasting impact on mental health in Calgary—one workplace at a time.