MENTAL WELL-BEING
Going beyond basic needs.
When it comes to mental health and well-being, thriving means having access to the right support, at the right time, in a way that is both empowering and sustainable. To achieve this, we must create a comprehensive, inclusive and adaptable system that goes beyond addressing immediate needs. This way, everyone in the community can live a fulfilling and meaningful life, feel supported not only in tough times, but in their everyday journey.
Why Thrive Okanagan?
In the Central Okanagan, there are significant opportunities to improve mental health and well-being by focusing on proactive, preventive strategies. While challenges like limited access to services, rising youth anxiety and depression, and resource gaps in rural areas persist, they can be addressed through a coordinated, systemic approach. Social isolation, substance use, economic pressures, and natural disasters such as wildfires further strain the entire community, with a heightened impact on vulnerable populations including people of color, LGBTQ2S individuals, Indigenous communities, immigrants, and youth.
Thrive Okanagan recognizes that mental health and well-being go beyond treating illness and require investment in prevention. This includes addressing social determinants like housing, social connections, access to healthy food, and equitable healthcare. Currently, mental health and substance use services often react to crises rather than addressing long-term wellness. Despite increased government funding for issues like homelessness and mental illness, the challenges are worsening due to systemic fragmentation. When organizations work in isolation, they miss the opportunity to effectively address the complex, interconnected nature of mental health challenges.
THE FOUNDATION'S ROLE
The KGH Foundation is uniquely positioned to lead this initiative because we understand that good health starts with a strong foundation of mental well-being Rather than focusing solely on treating symptoms, we strive to bridge the gap between health care and social care, prioritizing overall well-being and addressing the root causes of mental health challenges. Through our established relationships and capacity to provide crucial funding with donor support, we bring community efforts together, encourage collaboration, and celebrate the positive changes already taking place.
CORE PRIORITIES
Over the next year, KGH Foundation will invest in three core priorities identified by the community. This investment will be supported by a comprehensive evaluation and communication strategy to measure and share the impact of our efforts on system transformation and guide future decision making. Through these priorities, Thrive Okanagan is committed to fostering a healthier, more resilient Central Okanagan by addressing key issues, promoting collaboration, and driving systemic change.
- Collective impact networks: We connect leaders, innovators, and organizations to create powerful networks that drive positive change, bringing together local and regional leaders to tackle critical issues.
- Annual events and collaborative platforms: We organize annual events that serve as forums for idea sharing, networking, relationship-building and problem-solving. These events foster a sense of community and collaboration, enabling stakeholders to align their efforts with our overarching well-being goals and facilitating the creation of innovative solutions.
We provide financial resources to launch projects that arise from convening. This funding helps catalyze initiatives that address community needs, enhance well-being, and drive change. We aim to alleviate the burden of continuous fundraising for organizations, allowing them to focus on their impactful work.
We are committed to enhancing the capabilities of local service providers through targeted support, training, and collaborative efforts.
LEARN MORE
The Thrive Okanagan Vision: Goals for Well-Being is a community-driven framework spearheaded by the KGH Foundation, aimed at fostering vibrant mental and physical health, meaningful social connections, and equitable access to resources for all residents of the Central Okanagan.
OUR VISION
Thrive Okanagan envisions a future where every member of our community enjoys vibrant mental and physical health, strong social connections, and equitable access to the resources they need to thrive. We aim to be a leading force in creating a well-coordinated system where services, organizations, and partners work together seamlessly. By fostering a supportive, inclusive, and resilient community, we prioritize well-being for all and ensure that every individual receives the comprehensive support they need to thrive.
In five years, Thrive Okanagan’s success will be reflected in:
- Integrated network: Thrive Okanagan will be supporting a seamless, collaborative network of organizations bridging health and social care, focusing on all life stages, including youth, seniors, and specific communities.
- Equitable Accessible mental health and well-being resources will be available for all, emphasizing cultural safety and inclusivity to meet diverse needs.
- Enhanced resilience: The Central Okanagan community will be better equipped to handle economic shifts, public health issues and social inequities, because of the presence of a strong culture of collaboration, empathy and support.
- Celebrated success and learning: Thrive Okanagan will serve as a hub for sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions, driving continual improvements in well-being.
- Visible impact: Measurable advancements in key well-being indicators, as outlined by a Community Well-being Report Card, including better mental and physical health, stronger social connections, and improved economic and social conditions.
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MENTAL HEALTH CARE
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HELP IS AVAILABLE
Mental Health Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, support is available:
