WHAT IS HAPPENING AT CMHA

Looking for a career with the Canadian Mental Health Association?

Join the team that makes a difference! CMHA Vernon is hiring, and we’re looking for compassionate individuals who want to contribute to building a healthier community.

Our employees are a vital part of our vision to create mentally healthy people in caring communities. We value employee wellness and work towards raising awareness about mental health and reducing the stigma of mental illness.

If you care about mental health and you have the right skills, then CMHA Vernon may be the place for you.

We understand that those working in the social services and healthcare sector have faced challenges navigating complex situations while supporting others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Especially over the past couple of years, those working in these sectors have made significant personal sacrifices and juggled challenging work conditions on behalf of their work to support those in need.
We are seeking volunteers to serve as a support system for these individuals during this extraordinarily challenging time.

Care to Speak is looking for volunteers. Volunteers can be based anywhere in BC! If you have work experience in health care or social services.

CMHA Vernon News

Open Letter to the Community Sept. 19, 2023

As many of you are aware, there has been discussion in the last few days about Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) education, not only in Vernon but across Canada. 

CMHA Vernon stands in solidarity with School District 22 in their support for inclusivity, diversity, and the promotion of SOGI education.  

We understand the need for a safe and secure learning environment where students can access compassionate support. The voices of our youth are loud, and they demand their dignity and human rights to be preserved and free from discrimination, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

To our youth, we hear you. We see your strength and wholeheartedly support you and do not condone any actions that may compromise your safety. We celebrate your identities and have full faith in your ability to lead future inclusive communities.  We want to thank volunteers, staff, and community members for lending their voices to this response.

CMHA Vernon emphasizes that there are long-lasting consequences to silencing the needs of our youth. While the current topic focuses on SOGI education, the impact transcends schools and has far reaching implications in our community, beyond youth. As a mental health organization, we see firsthand that SOGI education, gender-affirming practices and the fostering of a safe and protective environment not only promotes mental wellness, but directly saves lives. 

We call on residents of North Okanagan to join us by listening to our youth and taking a firm stand against misinformation. The first step is to become informed by learning more about SOGI through credible, legitimate sources, such as SOGI 123

From there, open your heart. You will be amazed at where the journey takes you.

For those feeling affected by anti-SOGI actions and messaging, please know that you are not alone. Resources are available, including:

Interior Crisis Line Network (24/7): 1-888-353-2273

Provincial Suicide Prevention Service- (24/7): 1-800-SUICIDE or 1-800-784-2433

Mental Health Support Line (24/7): 310-6789

Talk Suicide (24/7): 1-833-456-4566

Talk Suicide Text (11am-11pm): 45645

Kid’s Help Phone (24/7): 1-800-668-6868

Kid’s Help Text (24/7): 686868

Sincerely,

 Jodi Cunningham

Chair, Board of Directors. CMHA Vernon

Julia Payson

Executive Director. CMHA Vernon

 

 

 

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