Coast Mental Health Foundation
With the economic downturn, Coast Mental Health Foundation has seen a decrease in the number of major donors or the reduction of their annual commitment. At the same time, the number of people on social assistance has increased as employers shrink their workforce. In a tight job market, people with disabilities face greater challenges in finding work.
Fortunately, donors to the Foundation will be providing the operational arm of Coast Mental Health $850,000 towards direct service programs up from $575,000 in 2008.
2008 saw the return of the Celebration of Hope breakfast and over 100 donors gave or pledged over $90,000 in the one-hour breakfast. Thanks to all the donors and table hosts who introduced friends and colleagues to Coast. Eighty of the over 100 donors were new supporters. The breakfast and monthly tours are essential in introducing new friends to Coast.
The 11th Annual Courage To Come Back Awards was held on April 30, 2009 and six outstanding individuals shared their stories of Courage. They include Helen Burnham (Addiction), Jessica Brimacombe (Youth), Vivian Garcia (Physical Rehabilitation), Lori Slater (Medical), Tina Tomashiro (Mental Health) and Becki Wyer (Social Adversity). The event also generated $632,000 in ticket sales, partnerships and funds committed the night of the event. (go to www.coastmentalhealth.com to read the stories of each recipient.)
We are pleased that Lorne Segal, Chair of the Courage To Come Back Awards graciously accepted an appointment of Honorary Patron of Coast Mental Health Foundation in recognition for his contribution to Coast over the past four years. Lorne will continue in the role of Courage chair for Courage 2010.
Thank you to all the volunteers who assisted in nomination panels, preparing for the event and on the night of the event. Thank you to our Platinum and Gold sponsors Scotiabank,