When Donna Markin, General Manager of Primaris Orchard Park Shopping Centre talked with her team about what cause they should support at their inaugural charity golf tournament, the answer was mental health.

“Choosing CMHA as our charity of choice was founded in our belief that we can be proponents of awareness and support for mental health initiatives. By bringing together people who share the same belief, who may have experienced the need for support, we can be the catalyst for open communication about mental health,” states Markin. “As an employer, as a business and as a community member, I am thrilled with the money we were able to raise for the CMHA.”

The total amount of money raised was $70,200; 100% of which will stay in our local community.  “We are thrilled to be recipients of this generous donation,” says Shelagh Turner, Executive Director of CMHA Kelowna.  “A gift this size means that over 2000 people will be directly helped through our Community Education programs and supports, equipping people with the necessary tools to prevent and recover from mental illness.  At a time when grant dollars are shrinking, we rely on donations more than ever to continue our work.”

Mental illness is a serious health problem in Canada affecting relationships, education, productivity and overall quality of life. Approximately one in five Canadians, or 20 per cent of the population, will experience a mental illness during their lifetimes. Mental illness costs the Canadian economy an estimated $51 billion annually.

Fortunately, CMHA offers the promise of a better life for many individuals living with mental health issues.