How your fundraising made a difference in 2024

“The Push-Up Challenge made a real difference for us. Thanks to the funds raised, we were able to enhance our Peer Support and Recovery College programs, allowing us to reach more people who need help. It gave us the ability to offer more courses, engage with underserved communities, and provide one-on-one peer support to those seeking mental health and addiction services. The stories of the individuals we’ve supported show just how much impact these funds have had in transforming lives.” – CMHA Calgary

CMHA Calgary are hoping to raise even more funds in 2025 to support the growing need for their services. “We’re aiming to expand our programs, reach more diverse communities, and create new initiatives focused on youth and workplace mental health. Every bit of support goes directly into these programs, helping us provide free services to those who need them.”

CMHA Vancouver-Fraser developed more sustainable ways of delivering their programs, so they can help more people – both now and in the future.

“The funds raised during The Push-Up Challenge had a significant positive impact on our branch, allowing us to address critical gaps in our programs and services. These funds were specifically allocated to areas of greatest need, enabling us to stabilize and enhance our internal capacity in response to the increasing demand for mental health services.”

“We used the funds to develop competencies, strategies, systems, and structures that improved our program delivery. This infrastructure development was essential for ensuring that our services are sustainable and better equipped to serve our clients.”

“Contrary to the misconception that CMHA is fully funded by the government or health authorities, these funds were crucial for strengthening our branch’s capabilities. They enabled us to communicate the ongoing need for support and to meet the growing mental health needs of our community. Overall, these funds played a vital role in enhancing our operations and expanding our impact.” – CMHA Vancouver-Fraser.

The branch has big plans for the year ahead.

“In the coming year, we are excited to implement a community engagement plan that invites input on how we can collaboratively address mental health challenges. Additionally, we aim to launch new programs focused on psychological health and safety in the workplace, an education and employment way-finding program, and a multicultural expansion that reflects the diverse community we serve. We also plan to scale up our Resilient Minds® program, which has proven to be impactful.”

CMHA Nova Scotia improved mental health literacy skills for those who needed it most.

“The funds [from The Push-Up Challenge 2024] are being used to help Nova Scotians gain mental health literacy skills through our Recovery College so they can take care of their mental health and thrive in their communities.” – CMHA Nova Scotia

CMHA Nova Scotia highlighted the need for social change and the importance of accessible programs to drive this change in 2025.

“There are so many Canadians not getting their basic needs met, which leads to other issues – so they’re not thriving.”

“Together with our branches in Halifax, Colchester East-Hants and Southwest Nova, we advocate for policy change that addresses housing, employment, job insecurity, working life conditions, social inclusion, and non-discrimination. The majority of these programs are free to access and available to everyone living in Nova Scotia.”