Canadian Mental Health Association - Calgary Region

Canadian MentalHealth AssociationCalgaryMental health for all

Report

Community2011-2012

to the

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Our Vision: Mentally healthy people in a healthy society

Our Mission: A leader in reducing the impact of mental disorders and in promoting mental health and wellness through community-based services

CONTENTSHIGHLIGHTS ....................................................................4CMHA AWARD WINNERS ..................................................5RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT .............................................6THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS ...............................................21DONORS ..........................................................................22FINANCIAL STATEMENT ...................................................23

OUR STORIESSALMA .............................................................................8MOIRA ..............................................................................10CLAUDIA ..........................................................................12DHENY .............................................................................14CHARLOTTE & MARY ........................................................17BILL ..................................................................................18HAMILTON + PARTNERS ...................................................20

PROGRAMSSUPPORTIVE LIVING ........................................................7POST DISCHARGE TRANSITION .......................................7COMMUNITY EDUCATION ................................................9WORKPLACE WELLNESS .................................................9STREET OUTREACH &STABILIZATION .................................................................11INDEPENDENT LIVING SUPPORT .....................................13ADVOCACY ......................................................................13PEER OPTIONS ................................................................15LEISURE RECREATION .....................................................15CONTINUING CONNECTIONS ...........................................16FAMILY SUPPORT .............................................................16SUICIDE BEREAVEMENT ..................................................19

2011-2012Board of Directors

President

Robert Schuett

Past President

Dr. Deborah Dobson

Vice Presidents

William BonePhil Dranse Treasurer

Donna Lee

Provincial Board Representatives

William BoneJanice Tye Board Members

William BoneJoe ColangeloDeborah DobsonPhil DranseDonna LeeJim Merchant Phil ScheibelRobert SchuettBarbara TateJanice TyeMargaret UsherwoodCandace Watson

A special thank you to:

Damian Blunt - Design & Portraits

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 3

Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary

is a people focused organization. We help and

educate people and that is our true strength and

focus. Our dedicated employees show year after

year how passionate they are about mental health

and about their role in the community. Our invaluable volun-

teers dedicate their personal time to help us achieve our mission.

Keeping the people we serve at the centre.

That’s why this year; our Report to the Community is focused

on people. Inside these pages you will see just a small sample of

the stories, and of the inspiration and dedication that we as an

organization experience every day. These stories are proof that we

are truly living our mandate here at CMHA – Calgary Region. We

are contributing to mental health for all.Over the past year, our organization began a new journey in

terms of launching an expanded and exciting strategy. Our people – including staff, clients, board members and volunteers – have embraced our new focus and plan. We are truly in the middle of a mental health ‘explosion’. We have the opportunity to make a sig-nificant impact on the mental health of our community.

In the years to come, we promise to continue on this path and provide the Calgary community with the education, programming and connection to mental health and addictions services.

Please take time to explore our stories, our program successes, and our highlights for the fiscal year.

What we ask is that the entire community accept the responsi-bility for taking care of individual, family, and community mental health. There is no health without mental health. It really does affect us all.

In closing, we extend our sincere gratitude to our Board of Di-rectors, employees and volunteers who so generously give of their time and talents. Also, we could not succeed without the gener-ous support of our donors and partners. In particular we thank Alberta Health Services, the United Way of Calgary and Area, and the City of Calgary Family & Community Support Services.

About Us

CMHA – Calgary Region has been at the forefront of mental health in the Calgary area since 1955. It is part of a leading national orga-nization that is one of Canada`s oldest voluntary agencies. CMHA is dedicated to reducing the impact of mental disorders and in promoting mental health and wellness through community-based services.

For more information, visit us cmha.calgary.ab.ca

FROM ThE PRESIdENT ANd ExECUTIVE dIRECTOR

President Bob Schuett (left) and Executive Dan Delaloye (right). PHOTO BY ALIX BROADWAY

Bob Schuett Dan Delaloye

President Executive Director

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

SUPPORT• The Capable Carers psycho-educational group, facilitated through the Family Support Program, was

reviewed and improved in order to better meet the needs of family members of individuals with a mental

illness.

• Two Independent Living Support programs (on-site and off-site) were combined into one to increase

consistency, capacity, and seamlessness of service provided to clients. The combination of the programs

has resulted in increased ability to respond to emerging client and community needs.

• Suicide Bereavement Services counselling sessions expanded to include services for family members

together and couples together. In 2011/2012, all the individuals, families, and couples who needed suicide

bereavement services received services; nobody was turned away.

• The Supportive Living group home program intakes now include clients with current addiction issues

who have been in recovery for less than the former six-month policy, reflective of our mandate expansion

at the end of the fiscal year. We understand that many of our clients have used drugs and alcohol as a way

of self medicating and see the need to assess each individual for their own recovery success whether that

has been two months or two years. Program staff have collaborated with other professional supports to

support these individuals to stay on the path of recovery. Many clients attend 12-step programs in the

community. As well, new policies have been developed around relapse that will allow for a client to go to

treatment and then back to the group home rather than a discharge from the program.

AdVOCACy• The Advocacy program worked with the Calgary Police Service, to change how background checks are

processed for people who may have encountered the police in relation to the Mental Health Act. As a

result of the work, the Calgary Police Service has developed guidelines, protocols, and appeal processes

that did not exist prior to working with the Advocacy program. The Advocacy Coordinator continues to

influence change by participating on the Chief Advisory Board for the Calgary Policy Service Diversity

Unit under the Disabilities Portfolio.

AwARENESS• In 2011/2012, the Community Education program began working with the Mental Health Commission

of Canada to evaluate the effectiveness in stigma reduction and increased help-seeking behaviours among

participants in the mental illness and stigma presentations.

• Mental Health Week, which takes place during the first full week in May every year, and was initiated

by Canadian Mental Health Association, celebrated its 60th year! CMHA – Calgary Region hosted A

Morning of Mental Health and Wellness, which was a free event featuring dynamic speakers on build-

ing resiliency, wholistic mental health, stress management and a pharmacist Q&A. The event brought

together 14 agencies for a resource fair and attracted over 150 Calgarians!

• The Street Outreach and Stabilization team participated in Project Homeless Connect 13. This is an

all day event for at-risk or homeless individuals and families, and is presented by the Calgary Homeless

Foundation.

hIGhlIGhTS

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 5

Throughout the year, many individuals and organizations help us to deliver services and promote our vision. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners:

Tim Grest Memorial Award (Volunteer of the Year): Bob Patrick

The Tim Grest Memorial Award is presented to a volun-

teer who has been active in one or more of the Associa-

tion’s programs and services, and who has demonstrated an

exemplary level of commitment, involvement, enthusiasm

and reliability.

Vince Van de Pol Award: Dheny Rivas

The Vince Van de Pol Award is presented to person with a

mental illness for their work on behalf of the Canadian

Mental Health Association – Calgary Region.

Outstanding Community Service Award: Carewest Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre

The Outstanding Community Service Award is awarded to an

Association, Corporation, Business, Government Department

or individual that has provided special community service

Communications Award: Valerie Berenyi, Calgary Herald

The Communications Award is present to a member of media

who have provided regular, continued and special assistance

in promoting the Association’s goals.

Professional Care Award: Shannon Middlemiss, Alberta Health Services

The Professional Care Award is for a professional mental

health worker (Nurse, Social Worker, Psychologist, Psychia-

trist, etc.) who has exhibited special caring or creativity in the

provision of mental health service.

CMhA AwARd wINNERS

CMhA- CAlGARy

REGION• Partofanetworkof135CMHA

branchesacrossthecountry

• 12mainprogramsandservicesforCalgarians

• 75staffdedicatedtomentalhealth

• 200volunteersthathelpusachieveourmission

By ThE NUMBERS:

MENTAl hEAlTh20%

of Canadians will experience a mental disorder

100% of those will struggle with stigma

$51 Billion in lost productivity from mental illness

$18,000 per employee is spent

on mental illness by employers

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Thank you to our loyal community groups, individual PEOPLE and corporate sponsors who collab-

orate with us to provide the necessary funding for our programs and services that directly reach

over 21,000 Calgarians each year and thousands of others through public education and resources

on our websites. We rely on your generosity each year to provide mental health programs, services

and education to Calgarians. As individuals you contribute through individual donations, our

Mind Leaders program, and fundraisers organized in the community.

Just a few of our fundraising events and contributions are highlighted here.

Employees Make a Difference Through Donation Matching Programs

Throughout the year we receive donations from many individuals whose employers generously match their

donations thus doubling the benefit of the gift, enabling CMHA – Calgary Region to reach out to even more

individuals in the community. Matching programs from ATCO, Cenovus Energy, Encana, Encana Cares Founda-

tion, Flour Employee Giving, Haliburton - Giving Choices, Nexen, TransCanada and many others helped expand

our reach this year. In addition, employers recognize their employees through grants because of their volunteer

hours in the community (Encana, Imperial, Shell).

7th Annual Fish & Chips Golf Tournament & Fly-Fishing Derby

Presented by Hamilton + Partners in support of CMHA – Calgary Region and Horizon Housing Society, this

event combines fishing and golfing on the world-renowned Bow River and Cottonwood Golf & Country Club.

This year brought over 200 participants together in support of two significant causes – homelessness & the stigma

associated with mental illness. Amazingly, over $114,000 was raised to build better lives and safe homes through

generous contributions of anglers, golfers, sponsors and volunteers. To date this event has raised over $800,000

shared by both charities.

7th Annual Mat’s Ride: The Journey to End Youth Depression

Every year since 2006, Mat’s Ride, The Journey to End Youth Depression, hosts a

motor rally that raises funds in support of CMHA – Calgary Region’s Community

Education program. The program helps educate youth on the signs and symptoms

of depression and where to seek help. This year’s Ride took place on June 18,

2011 and raised over $10,000. Mat’s Ride, created in memory and honour of

Mathew Gilbert who lost his battle with depression at the young age of 18

has to date raised an amazing $81,000 for this crucial educational program.

Yoga and the Freedom to Be Calendar

We are grateful to yoga instructor Stephanie Babcock who coordi-

nated a fundraiser selling beautiful yoga and wellness calendars, with

proceeds going to CMHA – Calgary Region. She raised $3,077 from this

fundraiser!

Zumba for Mental Health

Through the desire to raise funds and awareness of mental health

issues in our community, and the loss of a relative to suicide, three

licensed Zumba instructors raised over $3,500. Special thanks to Allison

Kiss, Jocelyn Hebert and Michelle Neufeldt for their dedication in organiz-

ing a 90 minute Zumba class in support of CMHA – Calgary Region.

By ThE NUMBERS2011-201223,000 Calgarians accessed our programs and services

$114,000 raised through Fish & Chips

$10,000 raised through Mat’s Ride

RESOURCE dEVElOPMENT

7 REPORT TO THE COMMUniTY

The emphasis of each Supportive Living Program is to offer support while focus-

ing on the strengths of the individual client. They are encouraged in their use of

personal, family and community-based resources to maintain their optimal level

of mental health, and to maintain their community living status. Above all,

CMHA’s Supportive Living Program is client-centered, empowering, flexible

and normalizing. Programming is designed to maintain the individual’s sense

of identity, dignity and self esteem as they are encouraged to move towards

optimal independence.

Coordinators work with clients to increase their level of independence

through individualized support and goal setting. Areas of assistance may

include development of daily living skills, accessing community resources,

emotional support and more.

Supportive Living coordinators operate out of 11 locations in Calgary.

In the Group living setting, clients receive coaching for development of

independent living skills, social skills and coping skills. Clients are encouraged

to engage in community programs as their skills and abilities allow. Group Living

allows for intensive assessment of client needs and functioning on a regular basis.

In the Apartment setting, clients receive support for development of activities of

daily living, such as nutrition and meal preparation, household maintenance, laundry

and budgeting. Additional supports include connection to community resources and assis-

tance with the development of coping and problem solving skills.

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-201212,327

hours provided by staff

173 clients served

346 house meetings, community meetings

and groups

87% feel their quality of life has

improved since joining the program

SUPPORTIVE lIVING

The Post Discharge Transition Program provides individuals who have a

severe and persistent mental illness and who are transitioning from the hospi-

tal to the community, with an alternative level of supported housing since often

times they have not been able to meet the criteria for living in other supported

housing.

The program aims to transition clients within six months to a suitable

housing accommodation within the community while assisting them to gain

the highest possible level of independent living skills. Individuals are able to

have a period of stabilization of their symptoms and illness in a community

integrated setting, which prevents their re-hospitalization.

The program allows clients to demonstrate a period of successful community

tenure while at the same time they establish linkages to community supports

and resources and develop their skills. Through the referrals from staff and

through the partnership with Alberta Health Services (access to nurse and

psychiatrist), clients are provided seamless access to services from hospital

through to stable community living.

By ThE NUMBERS2011-201233 clients admitted

3,797 hours of staff support

131 referrals to community agencies

74% of clients discharged transitioned to suitable housing (own apartment, approved home or supportive living environment)

POST dISChARGE TRANSITION PROGRAM

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Salma started volunteering with CMHA – Calgary Region in 2006. While looking for a volunteer opportunity with which she could put her presentation skills to use,

she contacted the office and got in touch with the volunteer coordinator.

By chance an orientation was taking place that weekend, and Salma knew this was the opportunity she was waiting for.

“it’s a neat opportunity because i come from a public health background, and there’s a lot of emphasis on prevention. it’s great to be able to present to people who may have a high risk of mental disorders and to actually take it to that level of face-to-face communication,” she says.

Salma volunteers as a presentation speaker with the Community Education program. Volunteers and staff in this program go out to schools and make presentations on stress, suicide awareness and mental illness and stigma. Salma focuses on suicide awareness and she just recently started to deliver the stress presentation as well.

“it’s definitely an indispensible program. it targets people who are at high risk for mental disorders and youth who are under stress. i honestly don’t know any program that can match it. To actually be able to prevent is a great opportunity,” she says.

Working with youth provides an opportunity to reach Calgarians in their early years, with the hope that they will remember what they learn and remain equipped to handle stressful situations, mental ill-ness or perhaps a situation where one of their friends is considering suicide.

“At first i thought maybe the information would be overwhelming for a person. i now feel if any-thing there is a need for them to learn even more. They are really ready to receive this information and i think it’s easier for them to digest it than it might have been when i was in school,” she says.

“it may be because they’re growing up with it they’re dealing with the bullying, etc. first hand, or issues at home, or in their neighbourhood. To think we shouldn’t discuss this with kids for whatever reason, is absolutely ridiculous.”

Salma lights up when she thinks about the feed-back she has received from students. Just a per-sonal story about a friend who was going through a hard time and that the student now knew how to help, makes it worthwhile.

“We want to be able to say to students that you’re not alone in this and there is help out there – that is really what i’m there for.”

Salma

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 9

COMMUNITy EdUCATION

Our staff and volunteers are out in Calgary junior high

and high school classrooms, as well as at post-second-

ary and community groups presenting topics such

as suicide awareness, stress and mental illness and

stigma.

The Mental Illness and Stigma presentation

focuses on the importance of early intervention,

the difficulties associated with public miscon-

ceptions about mental illness while promot-

ing awareness of mental illness and encour-

aging help-seeking by reducing stigma and

recommending helpful resources.

The Stress Management presentation

promotes early recognition of stress and

teaches healthy coping strategies to deal

with stress.

The Suicide Awareness presentation

helps individuals gain an understand-

ing surrounding suicide by increasing

their knowledge of warning signs of

suicide, age appropriate ways they can

help someone at risk for suicide and

how and where to access help.

wORKPlACE wEllNESS

The Copernicus Project™ - Risk Management for

Workplace Mental Health enables organizations to better

understand and communicate the impact that both mental

health and mental disorders have within the workplace. Either

through a succession of workshops entitled Copernican Shifts or

via a one hour session entitled What’s Up with Biff, employers and

employees are given the tools and strategies needed to address mental

health in the workplace.

Both train the trainer modules have been made available for purchase by organi-

zations which have recognized the importance of dialogue regarding mental health,

mental disorders and stigma within their workplace.

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-2012735

presentations made by educators

22,077 individuals participated

61 junior high and high schools were presented at

19 community agencies, corporations and

post-secondary institutions

99% reported they learned where to go to get help

96% who attended the Mental illness & Stigma presentation had

a better understanding of mental illness

92% who attended Stress Management reported they are

more aware of their own stressors

98% of the survey respondents who attended

the suicide awareness presentations reported that they have a better

understanding of the warning signs for suicide

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Several years ago Moira found herself living in a Calgary women’s shelter after trying to move to B.C. to take a jewelry making course and things not working

out the way she had hoped.

“i was living in B.C. in a small town – there wasn’t a lot of employment, i was working part-time. i went to nelson to take a course in jewelry making. Things didn’t work out at all. i couldn’t get a job there, and couldn’t pay for my course. So i made the decision to move back to Calgary,” she remembers.

“it wasn’t until i moved back to Calgary, and got a ride to a friend’s house i thought i would be staying at, and realized it would not be a good situation. She was out of control with drinking and drugs, and in the sex trade. i think i was there 72 hours and i knew i had to get myself out of that situation. i didn’t want to couch surf, i knew i wanted to go somewhere i wouldn’t have to leave right away.”

So Moira phoned the shelter and was told to come down.

“i explained what was going on, and got put into the emergency beds. Within a week they offered me my own room. i realized then how quickly things can change. One minute i think i’ll be living with a friend, and the next i’m at a shelter.”

When she was living at the shelter, her counsel-lor suggested she speak with a Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary Region Street Out-reach and Stabilization (SOS) outreach coor-dinator. She agreed, and started to work with the agency.

“She (the coordinator) was getting to know me and she understood that i wanted to move on, and also that i was dealing with anxiety and depression from trauma i had experienced in my life,” Moira recalls about the CMHA staff member.

“Talking to her helped me get a better understand-ing of my mental health issues. She not only helped me find alternative housing, but she recommended two other programs.”

Moira began taking the Art of Friendship course through the Peer Options program, as well as an art-focused program in Calgary as well, ArtRecruits. At the same time she was told she was a candidate for the SOS program’s transitional apartment.

After an intake process Moira moved into the apartment and continued to see the same CMHA coordinator, who helped Moira stay focused on her goals.

“When i first started dealing with my anxiety issues way back when, i was scared to even talk about it to best friends. i felt very alone and as though people were turning their back on me. i never felt as though i was alone while i was living in that apartment and being involved with CMHA. i always felt i had people to talk to, to turn to, and i think that’s probably one of the most important things.

“As life goes on and as i gain confidence in deal-ing with my mental health, i see a lot of people that probably know they have mental health issues, but don’t want to acknowledge them or know where to start. i just wish somehow more people could know that if you need someone to talk to, this is the orga-nization to go to. There is support here and people here can help steer you in the right direction. You aren’t alone.”

“At this point what i’ve learned is that any mental health issue can become severe if not dealt with,” she adds.

After staying in the apartment and receiving CMHA services for a year and a half, Moira also became involved in Opportunity Works and began to build on her small business of making jewelry.

She is now living in her own house, and making and designing jewelry. She was accepted into an internship with a designer and has started an online store. She’s also taken Healing Touch and Reiki courses, and she has a lot of hope for the future.

“The staff at CMHA really helped get me where i am and let me know somebody was there for me. Because of that, i have been able to put one foot in front of the other. They understood i had an issue with my mental health and they were willing to sup-port me on that at any time.”

Moira

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 11

STREET OUTREACh ANd STABIlIZATION

Up to 70% of homeless individuals have a mental

disorder which often leads to a deteriorated quality

of life.

The Street Outreach & Stabilization (SOS) Program

has been working to link hard to reach homeless

individuals who are experiencing mental health

concerns to essential services within the community.

The SOS Team supports individuals and provides

resources needed to help turn their lives around.

The SOS team offers specialized, cultural inclusive

support to Aboriginal people who have mental health

concerns and experience homelessness.

Linkage to psychiatric and medical treatments,

income support, housing referrals and daily living

skills enables homeless individuals to get back on

their feet so they can live in safety and comfort.

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-2012208

signed-up clients served

1,663 hours of intensive support to registered clients

3,198 referrals provided to various agencies

96.5% of Aboriginal homeless individuals contacted through

outreach and surveyed said that they received the support they needed today to meet their needs.

96% of individuals contacted through outreach

at shelters (non-Aboriginal Program) and surveyed reported that they have received

the support necessary to meet their basic needs.

Before the Supportive living program, I spent 8 years eating the same microwave food every day, watching TV, and sleeping 18 hours a day. Nowadays I have living skills and goals.”Supportive Living Client“

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Claudia

Claudia was new to the city two years ago, and looking for a job that reflected her experience in the social work and mental health sector. She had previ-

ous experience working at a youth shelter and with mental health issues.

During her search for a position in Calgary, she found a role with CMHA – Calgary Region and started working here a year and a half ago.

“What drew me to CMHA is it is a recognized asso-ciation of mental health in Canada. i started off as a part-time iLS worker working out of the Foothills Hospital. Then an opportunity came up to facilitate groups, which i have a passion for and have done in the past, and so i moved into full time hours doing that,” she says.

Claudia now facilitates the eight-week Skills for Life workshop, teaching participants psycho-social skill development.

“We work on building relationships, building self esteem and life skills,” she says.

Just recently she and a colleague were instru-mental in establishing a youth sports group aimed at 18-30 year olds.

“We noticed there is a gap for youth specific ser-vices for mental health, and things that are really active. So there are lots of groups out there that are low key recreation based, but this is for youth who want to be more active and engage with those in their peer groups as well,” she says.

Claudia says the hope is that the group increases self esteem through building on participants’ cur-rent skills.

“A by-product of physical activity is feeling better and feeling more uplifted. Hopefully they’ll make some connections, make some friends as well,” she says.

As an Independent Living Support coordina-tor, Claudia is part of a staff of 11 coordinators who work with caseloads of clients, meeting with them regularly and helping them meet their goals in terms of living successfully in the community.

“The iLS program really helps people along with their personal goals,” Claudia says. “Sometimes you need coaching to help you to reach your potential. Sometimes you need someone to guide you and give you resources and maybe challenge you a bit.

“Once i get to know my clients, i try to challenge them and get them outside their comfort zone and try new things. Hopefully the more they do that, the more they can get out on their own. The goal is really to not need me anymore,” she adds.

13 REPORT TO THE COMMUniTY

INdEPENdENT lIVING SUPPORT

Staff in the Independent Living Support (ILS) program deliver

supportive, skill building services to people who have been diagnosed

with a mental disorder that affects their ability to live independently.

With the support and guidance of coordinators, clients establish

individualized goals related to skill development (personal care, cooking,

shopping, budgeting, etc.) and work toward attaining these goals.

Through workshops such as Skills for Life, Pro-Active You and Money Matters,

ILS coordinators assist clients in developing skills to enhance daily living, social

and occupational needs and provide guidance as they set and meet goals which help

them move toward a more independent life.

AdVOCACyNavigating through the mental health system can be a daunting experience

and clients with mental disorders can sometimes feel lost and unaware of their

options. The Advocacy program is available to assist people in overcoming

challenges and identifying opportunities while ensuring the protection of

human rights.

The program assists with such issues as health care, finances, complet-

ing paperwork, filing complaints, residential tenancy issues and more. The

Advocate also maintains close working relationships with community organi-

zations to move systemic issues forward for improved service delivery.

People receive support to deal with their issues, information on available

community resources, and assistance with developing actions or steps to

address their issues and improve their situation, promoting their skills for

advocating for themselves.

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-2012382

clients served

7,138 hours provided by staff

77 workshops and group sessions

98% of clients felt supported in working on their goals

91% of clients felt their ability to function

independently had increased

92% were more confident in their

daily living skills

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-20121,240 individuals served

40% of inquiries were for mental health issues and access to services

98% reported the phone call or visit was helpful

(The IlS Program) has provided support to living a more stable, less stressful life. The program has improved my self-esteem and allowed me to participate in more social activities. I am working on my fears and life challenges.”Independent Living Support Client

“

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Dheny

imagine a seven-year-old girl in Grade 2, dreading going to school and seeing her classmates, and once there, suffering from panic attacks so bad that she had to leave the school. While it’s difficult to believe such a

young child could be suffering so badly, that was Dheny.

Dheny has struggled with mental illness all through her childhood, turning school into a personal struggle.

“During school it seemed as though everyone else was happy and had friends and not had any problems – but i always felt so different,” she says. “i did not function nor-mally. At 13, i was diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorders; but at the time, i didn’t receive much help from my doctor and i didn’t know how to deal with it. Once i got to high school, i had a lot of friends but was still very discon-nected; nobody knew the real me. i began to deal with my problems on my own – by self-medicating with drugs.”

When she was 20 years old, Dheny reached a break-ing point and decided to seek help for herself. After seeing countless specialists and striving to understand her mental disorders, she was introduced to the Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary Region’s Peer Options pro-gram.

“When i was first referred to the program, i was pretty skeptical. i wasn’t sure if i wanted to become involved,” she remembers. “i had a lot of uncertainties as i had been through a lot of different therapies already.”

Dheny turned 24 years old in March and has been dealing with mental illness for about 16 years.

if you met Dheny today, you would see that she is a con-fident, happy adult with an exciting future ahead of her. “Though my mental illness is a part of me, i manage it, and help others do the same through the Peer Options pro-gram,” she says.

Peer Options is focused on peer support, connecting with people who have similar struggles, though everyone has a different story. Everyone who enters the program begins with a nine-week course: the Art of Friendship. The Art of Friendship is a psycho-educational program that teaches

self awareness and interpersonal skills through topics such as human behaviour, responsibility, values, bound-

aries and trust as well as dealing with conflict.“This course really taught me about my own self-

worth and value and that i am worthy of positive rela-tionships and friendships,” Dheny says.

Dheny currently participates in the Circle of Friends, where graduates of the Art of Friendship course come together and build friendships and their social skills, confidence and life skills.

“Before i came into this program i was not confi-dent, and i felt very isolated. now i am a peer mentor, looked up to by my group members, and i was

accepted to university to study social work, which i will begin this fall. All the things i had thought about

doing before, but never really believed i would, i now know i am capable of and i will accomplish my goals.”

15 REPORT TO THE COMMUniTY

PEER OPTIONSThe Peer Options Program provides a safe place to share

with other adults who have a lived experience with a mental

disorder and are now wellness and recovery focused.

Together participants learn the value and skills of build-

ing healthy friendships, as well as strive to develop peer

support networks, and transition to the community.

Clients start with the 9-week Art of Friendship and transi-

tion into the Circle of Friends drop-in group.

Peer Options Program Staff conduct transition invest-

ment sessions with participants to discuss commitment

and personal learning goals. Staff also assist participants

to transition to the Circle of Friends ongoing peer support

group for additional skill enhancement or to set goals to

transition to community programs and identify ways to

achieve these goals.

Many graduates of the program give back to the mental

health community through peer support by offering inspira-

tion, understanding and mentorship as volunteers.

lEISURE RECREATION The Leisure Recreation program contributes to client wellness and

community integration by providing the means for adults with mental

disorders to participate and learn interpersonal skills within the struc-

ture of social/recreational activities. Benefits of the Leisure Recreation

program include: increased opportunities for socialization and building

community networks, physical and mental health enhancement, increased

recreational skills and activity interests, promotion and involvement in

leadership opportunities, and the opportunity to travel outside of Calgary.

Participating in activities with others boosts self esteem, builds confi-

dence, promotes recovery and above all, provides a safe, empowering venue

for clients to have fun.

The Leisure Recreation program provides a graduated activity approach

to meet and further promote client safety, ability and comfort. Levels for

various activities include starter, mid-range, and experienced and all activ-

ities are facilitated in a group format. Movement between these groups is

fluid and is based on goals set by the individuals and based on the evalu-

ation of the Leisure Recreation Coordinators. Stages are not time limited.

By ThE NUMBERS2011-2012

321 clients served

136 new participants

224 group sessions

3,236 volunteer hours

98% of participants reported improvements in

their wellness

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-2012153 clients participated

135 group sessions organized and facilitated

96% clients surveyed reported improvements in their wellness

100% reported attending Leisure and Recreation activities has helped decrease isolation

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

CONTINUING CONNECTIONS

The Continuing Connections Program assists individuals

between 18 and 65 years of age who are residing in a long-term

care centre and who have complex care needs since they are

dealing with both long-term physical health issues and mental

health issues. The objectives of the program are to increase

their confidence and to facilitate healthy living while restoring

hope because these individuals may be experiencing hopeless-

ness, isolation, or boredom. Individuals participate in thera-

peutic recreation activities and outings offered by the program,

are linked and accompanied to programs in the community, and

receive regular social visits from volunteers.

FAMIly SUPPORTThe Family Support Program provides counselling, drop-in

peer support group, Capable Carers psycho-educational group

and telephone/e-mail support and referrals to family members of

those with a mental disorder.

This variety in approach and service delivery allows us to

reach the largest audience, matching the programming to various

comfort levels and needs for those seeking support.

By ThE NUMBERS2011-201246 clients served

134 group sessions and activities

266 volunteer hours

90% reported improvements in their wellness

79% reported groups helped decrease their isolation

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-2012197 callers received support and referrals

20 Capable Carers group sessions held

599 total participants in drop-in peer support groups

96%of participants reported they cope with issues better

“we learned so much about ourselves and also learned about the coping mechanisms others have in place and that we also want to have in place during times of great stress and demand on our lives.”Capable Carers Group Participant

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 17

Charlotte and Mary

Mary started out her adult life with hopes of teaching English overseas. Things were going great – she left her nine siblings and mother Charlotte

for Seoul, South Korea, with excitement for a new career that would let her travel and teach. But then while she was there, she started to experience what she later found to be symptoms of schizo-phrenia.

“i was teaching ESL in Seoul, South Korea when things started happening in my mind – and i thought they were outside of me. i thought they were real. i thought people were going to torture me, i thought people were trying to put me into a love triangle,” remembers Mary of the time before she received her diagnosis.

She was experiencing extreme paranoia, severe depression, situations that left her with physical cuts on herself, and after 28 hospitalizations, was diagnosed with schizophrenia when she was 35 years old.

After many years of struggling with different treatments and programs, and Charlotte trying so hard to support her daughter where she needed it; the pair found Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary Region’s Family Support program.

“it was very helpful,” Charlotte said. “it helped me to give back control to Mary. i realized i couldn’t control what she would do. Only she could do that. i learned to accept the fact that i couldn’t do very much except support her during whatever she did right.”

After joining the group, and speaking to others in similar situations, sharing her experiences with her daughter, Charlotte began to co-facilitate the groups.

“As Mary got better, she came to speak to the groups a number of times,” Charlotte said. “They are always so appreciative of her. And because she was a teacher, she can address a group very well.”

Charlotte is now one of Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary Region’s most dedicated volunteers, providing countless hours of facilitation to the peer support meetings.

And when Mary gets to share her story with the group, she describes it as “very therapeutic.”

“it’s amazing for people to be able to come and get the support of others who have similar issues. You’re not unique, you’re not alone. You can come and share ideas, and no, you can’t bring the ill person back to where they were,” Charlotte notes, adding that knowing and accepting that is what is needed to be able to support your loved one.

“When Mary was diagnosed it was very hard on her and our family. We didn’t know where to go to find the help we all needed. After i joined the Family Support program i was able to connect with so

many other parents going through the same chal-lenges as me and my family, and that was a great relief. i was now able to share my experiences, gain resources, and most importantly, support my daughter when she needs me the most.”

Mary is currently doing very well; in fact she hasn’t been in the hospital for at least six years.

“i can’t make Mary go all the way back 15 years to where she was,” Charlotte says, “but now she has lost 40 pounds, and she’s teaching again – she’s teaching a writing program.

“i’m going to say with certainty that our family is doing well because of CMHA – Calgary Region and the Family Support program, as well as other important agencies within our community.”

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Bill

Bill is a Calgary lawyer who has three sons. His family was devastated when his only daugh-ter was lost to suicide several years ago. That’s when Bill became familiar with the services of

Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary Region. He sought help for his grief through the Suicide Bereave-ment Services program.

As he was beginning to heal from his own grief and trag-edy, Bill decided it was time to give back to the community that helped him.

Bill began volunteering with CMHA – Calgary Region’s annual Survivors of Suicide Day eight years ago. This annual CMHA – Calgary Region event provides connection and support to those who have lost a loved one to suicide. With-out the dedicated volunteers – Bill and other key contrib-utors – this day would not impact hundreds of Calgarians each year.

“SOS Day is an example of what fellowship can do to restore people with the kind assistance of charities includ-ing the CMHA in Calgary as well as the diligence and care and compassion of the people who have no other connec-tion except for the devastation and pain they endured when a family member or friend lost their way and eventually took their own lives,” Bill says about SOS Day.

in addition, Bill has acted as a courageous spokesperson for CMHA in the media and has told his story of personal loss many times to help educate Calgarians on suicide.

His goodwill and passion for community does not stop there.

Bill also attends local schools with the CMHA – Calgary Region’s Education Program to talk about suicide aware-ness, hoping to prevent the circumstances that struck his own family.

He volunteers with CMHA – Calgary Region’s Suicide Bereavement Services program — the program that helped him with his own grief journey — facilitating drop in groups and acting as a peer mentor.

He has served as a volunteer board member on the CMHA – Calgary Region Board for six years. in October 2011 he was elected as Chairperson for the CMHA - Alberta Divi-sion Board.

He has volunteered as a director on the Centre for Suicide Prevention Board since 2008. Through this organization, he was the Master of Ceremonies for the ‘it’s Everybody’s Busi-

ness: Alberta Communities Take Action to Reduce Suicide’ learning symposium held in March 2012.

His dedication has earned him the First Calgary Finan-cial Community Vision Award this year, presented at First Calgary’s AGM in March.

if you met Bill, you would see a passionate, friendly and dedicated individual. Once you got to know him, his passion to tell his story, provide other surviving families with support, and contribute to the reduction of stigma around a most pressing issue — suicide — would show

through.Without Bill, the volunteer sector and specifically,

CMHA’s suicide awareness and prevention programs, would not be what they are today.

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 19

SUICIdE BEREAVEMENT

The Suicide Bereavement program reaches out to individuals who

have experienced a loss by suicide, and need support with their grief.

The program offers counselling for individuals and families, psycho-

educational support groups and individual and group peer support

that assist clients in their grief journey. Educational presentations

and debriefings are also available to professionals and community

groups.

Survivors of Suicide Day is an annual event hosted by CMHA –

Calgary Region and provides support, healing, information and

empowerment to the community of survivors of suicide in Calgary

and surrounding area and raises awareness of suicide.

“I am so grateful that this group is available and for the facilitators who run it/volunteer their time. It has helped me a lot. Very very thankful that the Suicide Bereavement Services exists.”Suicide Bereavement Support Group Participant

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-201247

clients served through one-on-one counselling

222 calls responded to with support and resources

58 group sessions (bereavement support

and peer support)

100% of participants in the

bereavement support group felt they had a better understanding of the

effects of suicide

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Hamilton + Partners

Hamilton + Partners has deep roots in building mental heath awareness and wellness programs in Calgary. Dating back to the 1970s, founder Darol Ham-

ilton, now retired, has been integral to the devel-opment and success of both the CMHA - Calgary Region and Horizon Housing Society. Since then, the financial organization has stood by Calgary families and has been the very definition of com-munity builders and leaders.

“We believe that everyone has a right to joy and happiness,” said Rick Green, Principal with Hamil-ton + Partners. “We accept it as our responsibility to help build understanding and acceptance towards the issues faced by many of our citizens and do what we can to help put them in a position to over-come those issues and thrive.”

Hamilton + Partners contributions to CMHA - Cal-gary Region and Horizon Housing Society consist of not only substantial financial support, but also include over 1,000 volunteer hours donated, the recruitment of dozens of new donors, and consis-tent advocacy of issues surrounding mental illness. These efforts have helped to make a difference in the lives of many of the over 21,000 people CMHA - Calgary Region reaches each year.

Founding partner Darol Hamilton is the reason for Hamilton + Partners’ culture of community respon-sibility. Hamilton sat as a board member of the CMHA - Calgary Region 36 years ago, and during that time he started the Horizon Housing Society, along with Jim Rice.

HaRi Housing, as it was known then, would flour-ish into the organization it is today, which currently owns and manages over 600 affordable housing units in Calgary, serving tenants with mental illness, physical disability, families and seniors.

The bond Hamilton formed between Horizon Housing Society and CMHA - Calgary Region is going strong to this day, as the two organizations continue to work closely together to provide sup-port for programs promoting independent living to individuals living with mental disorders.

This relationship is perhaps most visible at the Fish & Chips Golf Tournament and Fly-Fishing Derby, which is presented annually by Hamilton + Partners. Since the inception of this event more than seven years ago, Fish & Chips has raised over $800,000 in support of the two charities.

Decades after Darol Hamilton’s initial contri-butions to the mental health sector, Hamilton + Partners dedication to the mental wellbeing of all Calgarians shows no sign of waning with their continued support as the largest sponsor of the upcoming Eighth Annual Fish & Chips coming up on Sept. 13, 2012.

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 21

ThANK yOU TO OUR VOlUNTEERS

Volunteers are an essential part of providing support to those affected

by a mental disorder. At CMHA, we rely on our dedicated volunteers to

make all of our programs, services and activities possible.

The Volunteer Services Program at CMHA-Calgary Region provides

strategic and administrative supports to other CMHA programs in order

to assist CMHA in addressing community needs and promote volun-

teerism as a needed support for CMHA clients. The Volunteer Services

Program is responsible for supporting Staff who supervise agency

volunteers to ensure volunteers remain engaged and have meaningful

opportunities to help the community. Areas of focus in this Program

include: training of volunteers and volunteer supervisors, recruitment

(promotion, screening, interviewing, etc.), recognition, communication

and standards.

Volunteers support the CMHA-Calgary Region to provide an

expanded range of supports, by volunteering as ongoing peer matches,

volunteering at peer support groups, or volunteering delivering mental

health presentations at schools. Without the current dedicated base of

exceptional volunteers, the CMHA-Calgary Region would not be able

to provide the breadth and depth of services to clients in need. From

the volunteer expertise that is given at the Board level to the volun-

teers who socialize with clients and model interpersonal, social, and

problem-solving skills and to the volunteers who facilitate groups, the

CMHA-Calgary Region is greatly supported by knowledgeable, commit-

ted community members who want to make a difference – and they do.

“It has meant a lot to me to be able to be a volunteer. Because of this, I’ve become so much more comfortable and confident in my own life and it has helped me excel on a personal level and in achieving other goals.”CMHA - Calgary Region Volunteer

By ThE NUMBERS

2011-2012200 volunteer participated in CMHA - Calgary Region programs

7,270 hours of volunteer work

11 programs utilized volunteers

92%of volunteers surveyed reported a meaningful experience

88%reported they feel they are making a meaningful contribution to their community

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

ThANK yOU TO OUR dONORSThank you to all our donors who further our mission through their philanthropic contributions including:

Alger, LoisAndrew, DarrenAndrosoff, Stephen & HeatherAriss, Mark & AnneBenjamin, RonaldBogle, Edward & NancyBooth, Robert & KathleenBrethour, AnnabelleBurzminski, DeniseClark, Stephen MCrawford, CurtisCullen, Malcolm PDelaloye, DanDavidson, Gerald & BarbaraDown, GaryDranse, PhilEden, Martin & Sally AEngman, Alwon & JoanEstate of William Randall Filipski, William & ShelleyFindlay, Randy & ClaudiaFroese, Robert & DianneFulbrook, Nikki

Handel, ShirleyHanna, MurrayHannam, Chris & MelissaHaskell, Merril & DianneHuber, Ervin & LauraHult, Vern & LynnHunt, David & DianneIrvine, DuncanKenyon, Sr. John & OrdellaKlause, ElroseKuwahara, Brian & JudyLarsen, DawnLis, Leslie & CathyLiviniuk, ViMannas, Michael & CarolMarkin, AllanMartin, W. EarlMartini, NicMathison, RonaldMcCowan, DuncanMcKenzie, Donald & JeanMoore, RonaldPachkowski, Bruce & Branca

Phillips, Douglas & MargoPinckston, Robert & ElizabethPoelzer, Louise & RonPotter, Andrew & JenniferRaedler, ThomasReed, BrianRempel, DoreenRoen, SherryScheibel, PhilSmyth, R. & AnnSpivak, Mitchell & RuthStewart, Mary LynnTate, BarbaraToews, ChrisTrotter, Martin & TheresaTye, Bill & JuneVandenbrink, Antonie & KathleenWatson, Mike & PatWenzel, CalWestcott, Ronald & NormaYager, RonaldYoung, Kelly & Dianne

Alberta 1595590 INC.

Alberta Centre for Injury Control & Research

Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission

Alberta Health Services

Alberta Lottery Fund

Alberta Tubular Products Ltd

Andrew J. Graham Professional Corporation

ARC Resources Ltd.

ATB Financial

ATCO Gas

Atco Structures & Logistics

Bellatrix Exploration Ltd.

BFL Canada

Bouvry Exports Calgary Ltd.

Calgary Firefighters Benevolent Fund at

The Calgary Foundation

Calgary Heavy Truck Centre

Calgary Learns

Calgary Public Teachers

Calgary Stampede

Calgary Stampede Downtown Attractions

Breakfast Committee

Cambium Woodwork (2005) Ltd

Canada Safeway Limited

Canadian Tire, Richmond Road

Canadian Traffic Network

Carstairs & District Community Chest

CEDA International Corporation

Cenovus Employee Foundation

Cenovus Energy Inc.

City of Calgary

COI - Contemporary Office Interiors Ltd

Collins Barrow Calgary LLP

Cordell’s Design

CORK, Fine Wine, Liquor and Ale

Country Pleasures Fly Shop

CTV Television Inc.

Desjardins Financial Security

Disability Advocates

Dr. Larry Stanleigh

Dr. Lefebre MD & Associates Medical Weight Control

Earl Grey Golf Club

Element Integrated Workplace Solutions Ltd.

EnCana Cares Foundation

EnCana Corporation

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Family & Community Support Services

Fedmet Tubulars

First Calgary Financial

FirstEnergy Capital Corp

Fluor United Way Campaign

Friday Professional Group Inc.

GLJ Petroleum Consultants

Great West Life Assurance Company

Greig and Brenda Nicholls Fund at

The Calgary Foundation

HAB Family Foundation

Halliburton - Giving Choices

Hamilton + Partners Inc.

Haskayne and Partners

Hillhurst Rebekah Lodge #116

Imperial Oil Limited

Intact Insurance

Inter Pipeline Fund

Invesco Canada Ltd.

J. K. Esler and Annemarie Schmid Esler Family Trust at

The Calgary Foundaton

Jack C. Lawson Associates Inc.

Josh’s Footprint

Kayak Foundation at The Calgary Foundation

Keith Werry Memorial at The Calgary Foundation

LGM Resource Management Ltd.

Lupi Custom Development Inc.

Mackenzie Financial Services Inc.

Marshman Enterprises

Mat’s Ride

Movac Mobile Vacuum Services Ltd.

Newpark Drilling Fluids

Nexen Inc.

Nortrux Inc.

Painted Pony Petroleum Ltd.

Pfizer Canada Inc.

Phase One Design

Pipella Law

Pyramus Consulting Inc.

RBC Foundation

RBC Royal Bank

Reggin Technical Services Ltd.

Shell Canada Limited

Sounds of Music

Spolumbo’s Fine Foods and Deli

Standard Community Chest

Students Union University of Calgary

Sun Life Financial

Sutton - Partners Realty Group

TELUS

Trotter & Morton Ltd.

Twigs & Company

United Way of Calgary and Area

United Way of Calgary, Donor Choice Program

United Way of Regina

Vantage Point Investment Management Inc.

Vintage Group

W 4 Development Group Ltd.

West Canadian Digital Imaging Inc.

Westjet

Yoga and The Freedom To Be 2012 Calendar

-Stephanie Babcock

Zumba Fitness Fundraiser

- Allison Kiss

- Jocelyn Hebert

- Michelle Neufeldt

Organizations

individuals

cmha - calgary region | report to the community 23

2012 2011RevenueAlberta Health Services $3,265,292 $3,179,629 Government Support 315,822 807,211 Public Support 1,124,767 1,247,035 Other Revenue 220,123 191,358

4,926,004 5,425,233

ExpendituresSalaries & Benefits 3,988,595 4,178,093 Building Occupancy 429,965 469,268 Operating Expenses 644,650 594,270

5,063,210 5,241,631

Excess of revenue over expenses before depreciation

(137,206) 183,602

Depreciation (47,653) (17,061)

$(184,859) $166,541

A complete set of audited statements is available upon request.

Canadian Mental Health Association - Calgary Region Condensed Statement of Operations, Year Ended March 31, 2012

Funding sources:

How we used our funds:

Program delivery

General admin and support

Fund Development

Alberta Health Services

City of Calgary

Other Government

United Way

Fundraising

Other Revenue

Special thanks to our community funding partners:

FINANCIAl STATEMENT FOR 2011-2012

Canadian MentalHealth AssociationCalgaryMental health for all

©2012 by the Canadian Mental Health Association - Calgary Region. Reproduction prohibited in whole or in part without expressed written permission. Contact the organization for more information or additional copies by calling (403) 297-1700 or via e-mail at info@cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Every day I come to work and I know that what I do is meaningful. To see the impact the agency makes in the community is inspiring. They say when your personal values match your work, that is when you are truly happy and that’s how I feel about my job at CMhA.”CMHA – Calgary Region Staff Member“

cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Contact Us Canadian Mental Health Association - Calgary Region#400, 105 - 12th Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2G 1A1 | p: 403.297.1700 | f: 403.270.3066 | e: info@cmha.calgary.ab.ca | cmha.calgary.ab.ca