In the face of escalating mental health challenges across Southern Vancouver Island, United Way Southern Vancouver Island (UWSVI) is leading a pivotal campaign this spring to bolster mental health services and programs.
With an urgent appeal for community support, the campaign, ending Apr. 8, 2024, emphasizes the reality of mental health struggles and the vital programs available to assist those in need.
An anonymous donor and Knappett Projects have generously offered to match donations up to $17,000, effectively doubling contributions made by March 31.
Maximizing donations through matched funding
The campaign introduces an opportune moment for potential donors to amplify their impact.
Contributions to UWSVI by the end of March will not only support essential mental health services but will also be matched dollar for dollar, making every donation go further.
"At the beginning of the year, especially during the darker months, support for mental health services becomes even more critical," says Erika Stenson, Executive Director of UWSVI.
This matching initiative aims to leverage community generosity to make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.
Strengthening mental health services
At its core, UWSVI acts as a central pillar supporting a network of social service agencies dedicated to addressing mental health and addictions challenges across the region. The organization plays a critical role in funding and facilitating programs that offer immediate assistance and work towards sustainable solutions.
"Without our support, many organizations would not have funding," Stenson says, highlighting the essential nature of the campaign for maintaining these critical services.
“Around two-thirds of the organizations we support do not have the capacity to fundraise on their own because all of their efforts go towards providing essential services.”
Highlighting partner organizations: Greater Victoria Social Gathering Place
One of the many beneficiaries of UWSVI's support is the Greater Victoria Social Gathering Place Society, which focuses on creating inclusive, low-barrier social events for individuals in mental health recovery.
Executive director Natalie Senik shares the importance of community-based activities in fostering recovery and growth.
"Just engaging in something outside traditional recovery groups can really provide a place for expression and growth," she says.
The Society's programs exemplify the direct impact of donations to UWSVI on individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
A call to unite for mental health
This campaign represents a call to action for the community to unite in support of mental health initiatives. By contributing to UWSVI, donors not only help sustain local programs but also participate in a broader movement towards creating more inclusive communities and reducing the stigma around mental health and addiction.
"We’re filling a gap left by strained medical systems," Senik says, underlining the growing need for support and the difference community contributions can make.
As the campaign deadline approaches, UWSVI and its partner organizations encourage the Southern Vancouver Island community to seize this unique opportunity to double their impact through matched donations.
To learn more and donate today, visit: uwsvi.ca/itsallinyourhead
