Events

America’s Got Talent Judge Howie Mandel to deliver keynote at Pathstone’s 2023 Hope Gala

May 25, 2023 Pathstone agency, Events, Fundraising, News

May 9th 2023 [Niagara Region, ON] – After a 3-year hiatus, Pathstone Foundation is thrilled to revive its Hope Gala with a star keynote speaker this fall. The 11th installment of the event co-presented by Mountainview Building Group & River Realty Development (1976) Inc., will welcome Howie Mandel to Fallsview Casino’s Grand Ballroom on Friday, November 3rd.

Mandel, a Canadian treasure continues to elevate as a comedian, actor and producer. With a career span of nearly four decades, he continues to reinvent himself and appeals to all age groups. Mandel, who was the voice of Gizmo in the film, Gremlins also starred in the medical drama St. Elsewhere. He created voices and starred in the children’s cartoon Bobby’s World. Additionally, Mandel serves as a judge on America’s Got Talent (AGT) and Canada’s Got Talent, was the host of Deal or No Deal (US & Canada) and recently began hosting the first season of the Netflix game show, Bullsh*t.

Mandel has been open about his mental health admitting that often times it became crippling. He will bring his truly personal story to the stage, sharing moments of struggle and success. Mandel will speak his truth, doused with his classic humour, making for a one of a kind night.

In addition to welcoming Mandel’s personal mental health journey along with taking your questions, we will also celebrate the impact Pathstone Mental Health has made in Niagara over the past year and share with our guests, and what the future holds for mental health care in the Region. Kim Rossi – Director of Philanthropy & PR, Pathstone Foundation

This truly unique night is not to be missed.

LIMITED Tickets/Tables are NOW on-sale online – Choose your table https://www.shop.pathstonefoundation.ca

2023 Hope Gala
Co-presented by Mountainview Building Group & River Realty Development (1976) Inc.

My Story. This year’s theme for Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week

April 29, 2023 Pathstone agency, Events, Fundraising, News

My Story. This year’s theme for Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week

Pathstone marks May 1st-7th with a series of events & support strategies

Monday, May 1, 2023 [Niagara Region] – This week, Pathstone Mental Health marks Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week (CMHAW) across Niagara.

Starting today, the city of St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland and the Region will raise our CMHAW flag. Niagara Falls, the Welland Bridge and Peace Bridge, along with the Branscombe Centre will also be illuminated green at times throughout the week.

The main goals of CMHA week is to highlight that now 1 in 4 children are impacted by a mental health challenge (an increase of 1 in 5).

Did you know?

Seventy per cent (70%) of all mental health issues, occur before age 25.

Throughout the week of May 1^st– 7^th, follow Pathstone on social as we host a number of activities and offer helpful mental health strategies. This year, we are hosting a Children’s Mental Health Fun DAY at the Pen Centre, in the Event Court (outside of SportChek) on Saturday, May 6^th from 11-2pm. This fun filled event is FREE for all to attend.

This year’s CMHAW theme, is MY STORY. We encourage all to share their mental health story with someone. When you talk about your mental health it saves lives.

The other purpose of CMHAW is to command the attention of those who are changemakers in the mental health space. We need those voices! Currently at Pathstone, there are over 800 kids waiting for mental health support. Kim Rossi – Director of Communications, Pathstone.

About Pathstone Mental Health

Pathstone Mental Health is a lead agency and community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara who are struggling with their mental health. Thanks to supportive donors and volunteers, we are able address and meet the needs of more children and their families each year. Crisis Services are offered 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944.

For Questions / Interviews Contact; Kim Rossi – c. 289-969-8342 e. krossi@pathstone.ca

Pathstone’s Market Square Summer Social

May 3, 2022 Pathstone Events, Fundraising, News

Bringing in Summer a Little Early

Pathstone’s Market Square Summer Social Event Returns, raising funds for Welland site.

Niagara Region, ON [May, 2, 2022] Market Square Summer Social, the in-person event Pathstone Foundation introduced last year, returns this June. All funds raised will support their newest site River House, located in Welland.

“We are turning up the fun a little early this year moving it to June, the place where our former Hope Award Gala once was. This event gives guests an open air feel in the heart of downtown St. Catharines.” Kim Rossi, Director of Philanthropy & PR, Pathstone Foundation

“The event is much bigger this year. We have grown from 11 food and drink vendors last year, to 18 this year. What remains the same is the love for all things local, and that includes businesses and Pathstone.”

“This year, funds raised will be designated to Pathstone’s newest site. River House, located in Welland is currently in renovation mode, but will open its doors to Pathstone clients and their families by the end of the year. We are in the middle of a $750K campaign that will support renovation costs and staffing. Hiring more therapists is the only we will be able to bring down the wait list that was created through the pandemic.”

A little more about the event.

Market Square Summer Social (MSSS) takes the best parts of an outdoor market experience, and social event and puts it together under one ‘open-air” venue in downtown St. Catharines. This year, you will not need a reservation time, simply purchase your tickets online and arrive when it suits you best between 5:30-7:00pm. MSSS will close at 10pm. That night you will experience some of the best Niagara has to offer with 18 food and drink experiences, live DJ and live Art creation, with a 50/50 draw too.

About Pathstone: In year two of the pandemic, Pathstone was again seeing an increase in cases. We inched closer to the 10,000 cases seen mark and are currently sitting with a wait list of 502. This 35 percent increase over the past two years makes it glaring clear that kids are struggling and that support has never been needed more.

To find out more about MSSS, to book your tickets and of course see who our generous sponsors and vendors are, visit https://shop.pathstonefoundation.ca

Market Square Summer Social

Wednesday, June 8th, from 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Buy your tickets online at, https://shop.pathstonefoundation.ca

Let’s Celebrate our Sponsors:

BELL Canada

Brock University, Bosh-Rexroth, Miller DKI, TB Landscaping

FirstOntario, Cogeco, Beatties, Mentholatum, RBC

Move 105.7 FM, AAEH Security, Haskell Photography

Here is who will be there!

Johnny Rocco’s Pizza Wagon, Wellington Court, Eh-Jose, Bolete, The District Tapas+Bar, 335 on the ridge, Red Ganache, Green Apple, Comfort Café Catering, Itty Bitty Pie Co., Dunk Cookie Co., Henry of Pelham Winery, Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, Bench Brewing, Chateau des Charmes, Brunch Beverages, Wandering Spirits Coffee, Collab Wine & Beverage.

About Pathstone Mental Health

Pathstone Mental Health is a community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara struggling with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, we are able to help meet the needs of more kids and families. We are a lead agency for the province of Ontario as well as the primary provider of children’s mental health services in Niagara. Crisis & Support is offered 24/7 and is just a phone call away: 1-800-263-4944.

For Media Inquiries / Contact:

Kim Rossi- Director of Philanthropy & PR e. krossi@pathstone.ca o. 905.688.6850 x 167

When a mission turns into a movement

November 2, 2021 Pathstone Events, Fundraising, News

Niagara mom aims to turn Niagara PLAID In Memory of her daughter and others lost to suicide

St. Catharines, ON (November 1, 2021) – A passion project that began with a few family and friends has quickly grown to become a movement to turn Niagara plaid in November.

Following the tragic loss of Amelia Durocher to suicide in February of 2019, her mother Shanta Rangaratnam channeled her energy and grief into #ProjectPlaid. Plaid was Amelia’s signature style, whether she was out with friends, heading to class at Brock or to work at Winner’s you would typically see something plaid on Amelia.

In its first year, #ProjectPlaid encouraged people to wear plaid on what would have been Amelia’s 19^th birthday, November 27^th and to donate to the campaign. In under two years, over $20,000 has been raised for Pathstone Mental Health.

With the addition of corporate support from Meridian and the Niagara Ice Dogs, and interest from many local companies and community members, this mission is evolving into a movement. “This was never just about Amelia, says Shanta, this campaign was about talking openly about mental health with the hope that something like this never happens to another child or their family.”

This year, Black Friday, will become Plaid Friday, on November 26^th. At 10:15 pm Niagara Falls will be illuminated Black & Red In Honour of #ProjectPlaid. The night before, (Nov. 25^th) will be Plaid Eve at the Niagara Ice Dogs game when they take on the Hamilton Bulldogs. Those attending the game are encouraged to wear plaid and can also donate to Pathstone on-site to receive a #ProjectPlaid sticker and or purchase a signature #ProjectPlaid toque. (available on the concourse level)

Companies, clubs, schools and teams can also JOIN THE MOVEMENT and support Pathstone in a variety of ways. More info on how can be found at www.pathstonefoundation.ca

“It is an honour to take part in this growing, important and meaningful movement” said Janice Calverley, Interim Chief Operating Officer, Meridian. “At Meridian, we are committed to building resilience, and that includes mental health resilience. We are thrilled to be a part of the conversation, wearing our plaid and supporting Pathstone Foundation.”

“We are still in this, and the mental health cases we are seeing at Pathstone clearly shows that the pandemic has made a troublesome impact on many. This campaign will bring some light and much love to those who are struggling.”
Kim Rossi, Director of Philanthropy- Pathstone Foundation.

About Pathstone Mental Health

A community-based organization with a mission to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara struggling with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, we are able to address and meet the needs of more children and their families. We are the primary accredited provider of mental health services for children in Niagara and a lead agency for the province of Ontario. We have been helping kids for over 50 years in Niagara. Note, Crisis & Support is offered 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944.

About Meridian

With more than 75 years of banking history, Meridian is Ontario’s largest credit union, and second largest in Canada, helping to grow the lives of 380,000 Members. Meridian has $27.6 billion in assets under management (September 30, 2021) and delivers a full range of financial services online, by phone, by mobile and through a network of 89 branches across Ontario, and business banking services in 15 locations. Meridian cardholders also have access to over 43,000 surcharge-free ABMs in North America with THE EXCHANGE® Network and the Allpoint Network in the US. For more information, please visit: meridiancu.ca, follow us on Twitter @MeridianCU or visit us on Facebook

For more information or for assistance arranging interviews, please contact: Kim Rossi, Director of Philanthropy and Public Relations – Pathstone Foundation / Mental Health krossi@pathstone.ca or 289-969-8342.

Pathstone Marks Pink Shirt Day 2021

February 24, 2021 Pathstone agency, Events, News

Looking at bullying through the lens of a 9 year old.

Today, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 is Pink Shirt Day. It’s a day to combat bullying and raise awareness that bullying happens every day, everywhere.

What can you do if you witness bullying?

Say something.

Studies show that when someone intervenes, 50% of bullying ends within 10 seconds.

Today we are sharing the story of a Pathstone client who was bullied at every turn. After doing the work, and being supported by his therapist, Ash is thriving.

The Story

If you spend time with Ash, you will see he’s a sweet kind boy with a big heart full of love. You will learn, he’s obsessed with Pokemon, the TV show, The Mandalorian, and books. His favourite author is Rodman Philbrick.

Ash is all about the details. He will tell you about every Pokemon character and what makes each one so special. He’ll likely tell you a joke, because he loves to make others laugh.

Once he feels comfortable, Ash will tell you that he was the victim of endless bullying at school. He envisioned how his day would turn out before getting out of bed each morning.

When Covid-19 hit and schools were closed, this grade 4 student’s daily battle finally ended. No school meant the kid who was bullying him could no longer reach him. He couldn’t be stared down, pushed around, or threatened. Ash felt safe at home.

However, this didn’t solve everything.

Ash was at Pathstone, being supported by therapist Kathy Molloy, who talked about their sessions together.

“We worked on coping with his feelings of sadness, worry, confusion and anger. Fear was keeping him awake at night. Ash described it as being like a DVD that was always playing in his head. He’s since learned how to talk about his feelings, how to make the worries smaller and to focus on all of the good things about him, and his life. Most importantly, he learned how to trust again.

The Outcome

Today, Ash is at a new school, and is thriving socially, emotionally and academically. He still sees Kathy at Pathstone and is excited to tell her about the new friends he’s made

In his words, Ash says, “Pathstone has helped me deal with my issues, and I feel like I’ve been heard, and people want to help. I trust Kathy, and I know I can tell her anything.”

Today is PINK SHIRT DAY. A day to recognize that bullying still happens, and not only at school.

YOU can support Ash, and other kids just like him through found at www.pathstonefoundation.ca/donate Select PINK SHIRT DAY from the donation drop down menu.

Our job at Pathstone is to support kids and families across Niagara who need to lean on us for mental health support. Kids, just like Ash.

Media Questions / Interviews: Contact

Kim Rossi, Director of Philanthropy & PR – Pathstone Foundation
e. Krossi@Pathstone.ca o. 905-688-6850 x 167

It’s Back … and BIGGER – “Fill the Pig, Feel Better” campaign expands in year two, in support of children’s mental health in Niagara

January 27, 2020 Pathstone Events, Fundraising, News

MEDIA RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- January 27^th 2020

St. Catharines, ON– Pathstone Foundation and Meridian Credit Union are partnering for a second year on the “Fill the Pig, Feel Better” Community Campaign in support of children’s mental health across Niagara.

Year two will kick-off with a few NEW initiatives.

You will be able to “adopt” a pig at ANY of the 17 Meridian Credit Union branches across Niagara to pick up starting TODAY, January 27^th. This year’s campaign runs until the end of February.

Those who “adopt” a pig are encouraged to fill it with donations in support of Pathstone Foundation.

Each filled pig, represents approximately two one-on-one sessions with a Pathstone clinician at any of Pathstone’s eight Hear & Now Walk-In Clinics located across the region.

When your pig is full, simply return it to any Meridian Credit Union branch. * You don’t need to bank at Meridian to participate.

This year, we are introducing NEW ways to get involved.

Members of our Niagara community are becoming “Guest Artists” and painting up their pig to put at the cash register/counter at their place of business, including EVERY STORE at the Pen Centre.

Join us, on Tuesday, February 4th from 4-8pm for our “Paint the Pig Night at the Pen Centre” – sign up on Eventbrite to reserve your spot. When you arrive (at the former Sear’s Entrance) your $25 on-site donation includes your very own piggy bank and seat at our art table where you can personalize it.

If you simply want to support the “Fill the Pig, Feel Better” campaign online, you can visit the following link www.pathstonementalhealth.ca/fillthepig and donate to our virtual pig. *an automatic e-receipt will be issued.

In year two, this campaign continues to be about supporting access to mental health support through Walk-In Clinics for kids and their families. This campaign is also a demonstration of how good it feels to give back, no matter your age. This year, we had businesses reach out to us to support this campaign. There will be over 200 of them with piggy banks at their counters throughout the month. – Kim Rossi- Director of Philanthropy & PR –Pathstone Foundation

Meridian is proud to partner with Pathstone Foundation for a second consecutive year, because we share a common goal of helping to grow lives and make them better. Finances are one the biggest stressors for parents as they carry out the demands of work and family while dealing with the challenges of mental health issues. Thanks to Pathstone, families have access to programs and support they otherwise would not have without significant financial costs. Together, we can make sure that Pathstone continues its vital work in supporting children’s mental health. We all benefit from the lasting positive impact Pathstone has on these young lives and their families. – Shelley Dix- District Vice President- Meridian

Campaign Details:

Donate anytime: https://www.pathstonefoundation.ca/fillthepig/ *donors will be e-receipted automatically
Official Kick-off – TODAY, Jan 27^th Visit ANY of Niagara’s 17 Meridian Credit Union locations.
“Paint the Pig at the Pen Night” – February 4^th – from 4 – 8pm sign up at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paint-the-pig-at-the-pen-night-registration-86551559043
Wrap-up & Campaign Total Announcement– March 8^th– Meridian Centre – Ice Dogs Game.

Adoption Locations- ALL 17 Meridian Credit Union branches across Niagara – https://www.meridiancu.ca/contact-us/Find-a-Branch-or-ABM.aspx

SHARE, LIKE, REPOST, RETWEET on SOCIAL

Instagram & Twitter: @Fill_the_Pig
Tag: @PathstoneMH / @MeridianCU / @ThePenCentre
Hashtag: #fillthepig #Niagara #ChangeMatters #PigSpotting #KidsCount

About Pathstone Mental Health
Pathstone Mental Health is a community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara diagnosed with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, we are able to address and meet the needs of children and their families as the only accredited provider of mental health services for children in Niagara. Crisis Services are offered 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944.

About Meridian
With over 75 years of banking history, Meridian is Ontario’s largest credit union and the third largest in Canada, helping to grow the lives of its more than 300,000 Members. Meridian has $20.6 billion in assets under management as of November 30, 2018 and delivers a full range of financial services online, by phone, by mobile and through a network of 90 branches across Ontario, and commercial banking services in 11 locations. Meridian Members also have access to THE EXCHANGE® Network, with more than 3,500 no-fee ABMs across Canada and 500,000 ABMs in the United States. For more information, please visit: meridiancu.ca.

Media Contact – Questions / Interviews:
Kim Rossi – Director of Philanthropy & Public Relations -Pathstone Mental Health/ Pathstone Foundation
289.969.8342 e. krossi@pathstone.ca

Niagara man leaving Ottawa to begin a 36 hour ride home in support of Mental Health

November 18, 2019 Pathstone Events, Fundraising, News

St. Catharines, ON (November 18th, 2019) – Just after midnight (Nov 19^th), Justin Turgeon will get on his bike in the Nation’s Capital and won’t get off until her arrives back in Niagara.

The more uncomfortable the better he says. Turgeon has decided to make point about the struggles you encounter when your mental health suffers at a time when the weather is anything but predictable.

Turgeon uses the “wolf pack” mentality in his training and in life, which is one of extreme loyalty and devotion to a group that binds wolves or in this case, people together as a unit. The 32 year old trainer is leaving downtown Ottawa in the dark of night with his “wolf pack” support team following close behind.

If all goes according to plan and the weather is somewhat on his side, Turgeon will arrive at the Branscombe Mental Health Centre in St. Catharines 36 hours later after clocking 560 kilometers. *estimated arrival time in St. Catharines approximately 2pm, Wed. Nov. 20th.

The goal of his Ride Over Matter mission is to heighten awareness of those struggling with their mental health and to raise funds for Pathstone Foundation in the process.

The former hockey player was sidelined after suffering multiple injuries and concussions. Turgeon also lost a cousin, who was like a brother to him at the hands of a mental health and addiction struggle.

Justin has made a few visits to local schools talking to students about his ride. A class at Notre Dame Elementary had his trip turned into a science and math lesson with students tracking time, speed and distance. The grade 3 students were full of questions for Turgeon and sent him off with a pile of letters of encouragement and thanks.

A few kids were very vocal about the fact they go to Pathstone for treatment. This really hammers home the mission of this ride. It’s about kids in our community being able to talk about their mental health and be supported.

Justin Turgeon, Ride Over Matter

A personal fundraising page has been set up for Justin’s Ride Over Matter trek. Supporters can sponsor Justin in kilometers by visiting https://www.pathstonefoundation.ca/ride-over-matter/ and will receive a tax deductible charitable receipt.

This kind of feat needs to be celebrated and I know when we ask Niagara for support, they come out in droves. We are so excited for him and grateful for Justin’s support. We hope the communit will join us on November 21^st, in welcoming Justin home and celebrating his important journey.

Kim Rossi, Director of Philanthropy & PR – Pathstone Foundation.

You’re Invited

Justin’s Welcome Home Celebration!

Join Us at Pathstone Mental Health

1338 Fourth Avenue, St. Catharines

Wednesday, November 21^st – 1:00pm (Justin expected at approx. 2pm)

Refreshments will be served *courtesy of Tim Hortons St. David’s Road

About Pathstone Mental Health

Pathstone Mental Health is a community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara diagnosed with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, we are able to address and meet the needs of children and their families as the only accredited provider of mental health services for children in Niagara. We have been helping kids for over 50 years in Niagara. Note, Crisis Services are offered 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944.

Mountainview Natural Playground & Healing Garden, opens at Pathstone

May 30, 2019 Pathstone agency, Events, News

This afternoon, over 150 members of the Niagara community gathered at the Branscombe Mental Health Centre and cut the entrance ribbon to the new Mountainview Natural Playground & Healing Garden.

This is the first Natural Playground & Healing Garden, built at a children’s mental health facility in Canada.

Calling it a brain sanctuary, Pathstone CEO Shaun Baylis spoke about the sensory experience the outdoor space will provide for Pathstone’s clients. “Kids will rediscover the harmony found in being part of nature and will experience natural mindfulness that comes from digging into the earth, touching water and smelling trees and flowers.

The idea for the space came about after seeing repeated research validating the health benefits that come with spending time in a natural setting, especially among children with mental health issues, which is the core of Pathstone’s services. “This type of reconnecting play will increase energy, improve focus and boost serotonin and endorphin levels of our kids says Baylis.”

While the space will be used to improve the mental wellness of our clients from active therapy outside to being able to play before or after therapy, we are proud to have partnered with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority to create monthly outdoor education sessions, to teach children more about our natural world.”
Kim Rossi – Director of Philanthropy & PR – Pathstone Foundation

About Pathstone Mental Health
Pathstone Mental Health is a community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara diagnosed with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, we are able to address and meet the needs of children and their families as the only accredited provider of mental health services for children in Niagara. Crisis Services are offered 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944.

Media Contact – Questions / Interviews;
Kim Rossi – Director of Philanthropy & Public Relations -Pathstone Foundation
289.969.8342 e. krossi@pathstone.ca

Photo credit to Bill Augerman Photography

Taps, Apps & Laughs

March 12, 2019 Pathstone Events

Taps, Apps & Laughs is a night to enjoy local beer & wine, tasty food and hilarious comedy with 150 guests. The comedy show will feature local comedian David Green with 3 opening performances by Michael Moses, Brenda Lennie and Marc Calaguiro. On April 4 from 7 to 11 p.m., guests will enjoy $2 app tasters and raffle prizes at Beechwood Golf and Social House.

Turntable Trivia

March 12, 2019 Pathstone Events

Turntable Trivia is retro music-themed trivia night from the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s, taking place on March 29 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Canadian Polish Society in St. Catharines. This sold out event of 272 guests, will feature music, mystery prizes and food & drinks.