The annual Legacy for Alex Kerswell fundraising dinner and silent auction held June 21 raised $16,000 in support of youth mental health in our area.
Leanna Kerswell, Alex’s mom and charity president, said this year’s event sold out, and they even had a waiting list.
The $16,000 raised was presented to representatives from three local organizations during cheque presentations on Sept. 10.
The Elizabeth Fry Society of Simcoe Muskoka received $7,500 to help continue to provide youth programming at Alex’s Place, a 12-unit transitional housing program for youth aged 16–24 who are experiencing homelessness.
Mind Aid Muskoka also received $7,500. The local organization helps youth navigate the mental health system, connecting them to the correct resources to aid in their journey to mental wellness.
The remaining $1,000 will fund the Legacy for Alex Gravenhurst High School Bursary Fund, which is awarded to one or two graduating students who have overcome adversity each year. Kerswell said they established the bursary to acknowledge other youth like Alex who struggle with school.
“Most bursaries are based on academics,” said Kerswell. “So, we wanted one for youth that have overcome something pretty significant in their high school career.”
Kerswell said there’s a lot of work that needs to be done in our community for youth struggling with mental health but, she believes the community is starting to see the importance and they want to support the cause by supporting their charity.
“The more we talk about mental health and homelessness issues, the more we can decrease the stigma around these issues – which will hopefully lead to more people reaching out for help,” she said.
Kerswell believes their efforts are making a difference in the lives of youth in Muskoka.
“If we can even save one family from going through what we have – with the suicide of our son, then all of this work is so worthwhile,” she said.
She wants to use their family’s tragedy to create awareness and help reduce the stigma around discussions on mental health, and hopefully enable more youth to reach out for support.
“I hope they realize they are important and loved and they should never give up,” said Kerswell. “No matter how dark things can get sometimes, there’s always a brighter day around the corner.”
September 10 was World Suicide Prevention Day and in Canada about 4,500 people commit suicide each year.
If your or someone you know is in crisis, call 9-8-8, there are councilors available 24/7, 365 days a year.
To learn more or support Legacy for Alex, visit Legacy For Alex
