The power of cycling in bolstering mental health was vividly demonstrated in Vernon on Sunday as the annual Ride Don’t Hide cycling fundraiser rallied community support and raised over $53,000 for local youth mental health resources.
The event, held on June 9, saw an enthusiastic turnout of more than 170 participants, who pedaled through various routes ranging from 1.2 to 50 kilometers in Vernon and Coldstream. Hosted in Polson Park, Ride Don’t Hide transcended mere fundraising; it became a vibrant community celebration, complete with a barbecue, children’s activities, and a thrilling fly-past by the Vernon Snowflakes formation flying team.
The funds raised from Ride Don’t Hide will directly benefit the Youth Integrated Services Hub, managed by the Vernon branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). This vital support enables CMHA to deliver essential programs tailored to the needs of young people, ensuring timely access to critical mental health services.
Julia Payson, Executive Director of CMHA Vernon, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community response, emphasizing the collective commitment to supporting youth mental health. She underscored the significance of these funds in equipping young individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary for managing their mental health and well-being effectively.
Moreover, Ride Don’t Hide facilitated valuable connections between CMHA and local organizations, fostering new relationships with the Vernon BMX Club and Kalamalka Secondary School. These partnerships promise to further enrich mental health initiatives within the community and expand support networks for youth.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Payson extended heartfelt appreciation to participants, sponsors, donors, and volunteers whose dedication ensured the event’s resounding success. She lauded the North Okanagan community for its unwavering compassion and generosity, reaffirming its status as a caring and supportive home for all.
Ride Don’t Hide not only raised funds but also amplified awareness of the critical importance of mental health support for youth, underscoring the transformative impact of collective action in building resilient communities.
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