A passionate community advocate has joined the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District.

Richard Rolke is CMHA Vernon’s new manager of fund development and communications.

“We are very excited to have Richard join our team,” said Julia Payson, executive director of the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District.

“Richard is no stranger to CMHA and has supported many of our campaigns and projects, including as a volunteer member of the capital committee raising funds for the Foundry. Richard is a storyteller and community leader, and he is a wonderful new lead for our communications and fund development work.”

Rolke was most recently the communications and program coordinator for the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, and he also has 28 years of experience in local media. He is currently on the board of directors of the Friends of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park Society and has been active with other non-profit organizations. He has connections in virtually every community in the North Okanagan.

“It is a great honour to join the team at CMHA Vernon and support the significant work they do in terms of empowering individuals and families to enhance mental health. My goal is to increase community awareness about the importance of mental health and wellness,” said Rolke.