By Connor Hutchinson

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Uniting Nanaimo for Youth Mental Health

Feb 15, 2024 | 8:00 AM

Save the date for September 14, 2024, for IGNITE2024 – NatureNurture, as the Vancouver Island Conference Centre transforms into an artistic experience of charitable activity as we aim to raise $100,000 for vulnerable and at-risk youth in Nanaimo.

Prepare for an evening of extraordinary performances featuring a diverse array of volunteer musicians, dancers, live art, models, drag artists, and more, all supported by local makeup artists and hairstylists. Together, we will showcase their talents in support of mental health.

Statistics show that by the age of 40, half of Canadians will have encountered mental health concerns, with approximately 1.2 million children and youth affected. This number rises to 7.5 million by the age of 25.

Embracing diversity, inclusion, and acceptance, the event will bring together Vancouver Island’s most vibrant and diverse communities, uniting in generosity and talent all in support of mental health and vulnerable youth.

This year’s donor recipients for IGNITE are:

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Take a Hike Foundation and SD #68’s Learning Alternatives School

Take a Hike engages youth with intentional, continuous clinical counselling,land-based learning, and community. Our public school district partners provide high quality education, and together, we empower youth with the skills and resilience they need to graduate high school, build healthy relationships, and achieve success – however they define it.

For too many young people, youth is a time of relentless uncertainty, anxiety, and trepidation. Yet many don’t find stability or safety either at home or at school. This is where Take a Hike works….

Their distinctive approach integrates the clinical therapy supports so critical to their mental health and well- being, while immersing them in a land-based program to learn self-empowerment and the capacity to choose their own way along the path of life.

SD#68’s Learning Alternatives School is a dynamic blend of forward-thinking education and personalized programming.

Priding themselves on individualized academic plans that focus on the student’s strengths, they use innovative strategies to help progress students in areas that need improvement.

The ‘Learning Alternatives’ team is composed of creative teachers, supportive education assistants, caring child/youth/family support workers, mental health clinicians, and upbeat administration. The goal is to guide each student to discover personal success and help them become productive members of the community.

Believing in authentic, meaningful experiences that connect students to the natural world, they work tirelessly to inspire sustainable values and behaviours. The ‘Circle of Courage’ is woven throughout all of the programs. This model of youth development is based on the principles of belonging, mastery, independence and generosity.

Learning Alternatives Programs:

Sr. Learning Alternatives

Ravens Lelum – Young Parent Program

ABOUT – Alternatives Based Opportunities United by Teamwork

ITT- Intro to Trades

Family Learning Outreach and Wellness

Nanaimo Correctional Centre

Join the Foundation for Artistic Expression in supporting mental health for vulnerable youth!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable and at-risk youth? Do you have a talent to share or resources to contribute? We invite you to be a part of IGNITE2024 as we dedicate an evening to supporting mental health initiatives for youth in need.

Volunteers: We are seeking dedicated individuals to join our ‘CHANGE MAKERS’ team and help make this event a success. Whether you can offer your time and skills in event planning, marketing, logistics, or any other area, we welcome your support.

Performers: Are you a visual, spoken, or performing artist of any kind with a heart for giving back? We are looking for talented individuals or groups to showcase their skills and entertain our guests during the fundraiser.

Auction Items: Do you have goods or services that you could donate to our fundraising auction? Your contributions will help us raise vital funds to support mental health programs for vulnerable youth.

Sponsors: Are you a business or organization looking to align with a meaningful cause? Partner with us as a sponsor and showcase your commitment to mental health and youth empowerment.

Your participation can significantly impact the lives of young individuals encountering mental health difficulties in Nanaimo. Together, we can create a supportive community and provide essential resources to those who need it most.

To volunteer, perform, donate auction items, or become a sponsor, please contact info@togetherweshine.ca or visit www.shinefae.com for more details, or join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/canadianchangemakers

Thank you for your support! Stay tuned for EARLY BIRD TICKETS!