Surviving mental health issues is a tough ride.
Just reaching out for and receiving help can be a difficult choice for those who suffer from mental health issues.
In order to help the individuals receive the help they need, conversations, fundraising and uplifting events are imperative to exact a change.
One of those events happens on Sunday, June 24 when the Canadian Mental Health Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (CMHA-NL) hosts its 2nd Annual Ride Don’t Hide community bike ride.
This event helps raise awareness and help break the stigma surrounding mental health while raising essential funds to support mental health programs.
This fun event is not a competition and those who wish to walk or ride the event course are encouraged to take part. There are routes designed for participants of all ages and abilities.
Participants can use a tricycle, push a stroller, roller blade, skateboard, all levels of cyclists and walkers are all encouraged to participate in the event
“Our goal in 2018 is to raise $50,000 to support much needed mental health programs across Newfoundland and Labrador,’’ Dan Goodyear, chief executive officer, CMHA-NL said.
Registration for the event is $35 and included for that price is a Ride Don’t Ride T-shirt, Ride Don’t Hide swag, a hot dog and a bottle of water.
CMHA-NL’s Ride Don’t Hide is an annual fundraising bike ride that is hosted in seven provinces and in more than 30 communities including the St. John’s area. The nationwide event raised more than $6 million in 2017.
The fundraising efforts have seen more than 7,500 riders participate in 2017 and it is expected this number will grow this year as Ride Don’t Hide raises funds for essential programs and services in communities, workplaces and schools – programs that change and help save lives.
The event begins at Paradise Park on McNamara Drive at 8 a.m. with registration and opening ceremonies are set for 8:30 a.m. The ride begins 9 a.m. and will be followed by food and entertainment for all participants.
The ride options include:
Advanced: 21 km (two laps)
Intermediate: 10.5 km (one lap)
Beginner/Family- 3 km (Route TBA)
For more information, interested persons are asked to contact:
Canadian Mental Health Association, Newfoundland and Labrador
603 Topsail Road, St. John's, NL A1E 2E1
Tel: 709-753-8550
Fax: 709-753 8537
To register, online or for more information, go to www.cmhanl.ca .
The Canadian Mental Health Association was founded in 1918 and is a national charity that helps maintain and improve mental health for all Canadians.
As the nationwide leader and champion for mental health, CMHA helps people access the community resources they need to build resilience and support recovery from mental illness. Visit the CMHA website at www.cmha.ca for more.
