September • 2022 HOW FINLAND IS HOMELESSNESSERADICATINGSURFINGSCIENTISTS Hunt Microplastics Off Spanish Beaches COLOMBIA’S Grand Return to Tourism BELLISARIO&J.PATRICKADAMSTROIAN JOIN WAR CHILD WAYS TO EAT WELL TRAVELLINGWHILE Kids Help Phone None 1 Globe & Mail Basis Grotesque Pro Ad Banner PR14706_KHP_AdBanner_Anxiety_GlobeMail_8.97x1.6 v1.indd None 8.97" x 1.6" None8.97" x 100%NEWSPAPER1.6" None 8-5-2022 2:56 Pedro.RodriguesPMLuis.Santos 2 T:8.97" T:1.6"angzyatee Grown-up problems aren’t just for grown-ups. Every year, millions of kids reach out to us. Connect at kidshelpphone.ca globalheroes.com ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
RAYE MOCIOIU War damages every aspect of a child’s life. Between stripping their families of vital means of support to taking away their access to education and legal protection, war makes it impossible for a child to enjoy theirForchildhood.thesechildren, every day is a struggle. The things that many of us take for granted can be life-threatening for them, conflict throws everyday life into chaos, and the uncertainty of what’s to come is a constant stressor. “People are good at reacting to emergency situations,” said War Child Founder and President Samantha Nutt. “But there’s a tendency to move onto the ‘next big crisis’ when issues are less changemakerssupportannuallytoservice,brighterwarovercomechildrentocommunity-drivenbeyond.fromoftheirhasthatremainsheadlinescommunities.manyviolence,toChildtothelong-termhelpful,thesecommunitiesonNuttHumanitarianimmediate.”organizations,explained,oftenfocustheshort-termneedsofincrisis.Whilemeasurescanbeincrediblytheyleaveagapinsupport,dealingwithconditionsthatcontributeviolenceandinstability.Warexiststofillthatgap,breakthecycleofpoverty,anddespairthatsoarefacinginwar-tornEvenwhenthedisappear,WarChildontheground,knowingtheworkisnotoveryet.Forover20years,WarChildworkedwithchildrenandfamiliesatthefrontlinetheworld’smajorcrises,IraqtoAfghanistanandWarChildusesabold,approachdeliverprogramsthatgivethebestchancetothechallengesofandgrowuptoseeafuture.OveritstwodecadesofWarChildhasgrownreachover600,000peopleandhasamassedfromcelebritylike
“War Child’s model of building from within, hiring locally, and building local capacity makes so much sense and is the best way to create sustainable change,” Bellisario said. “Local leaders and communities understand their needs, their culture, and the specific challenges they face. They are best positioned to lead the programs with support from War Child. The hope is that one day War Child won’t be needed anymore, and communities will be able to continue this critical work on their own.” For now, War Child’s work is far from over. In many countries where War Child works, including Yemen, Afghanistan, and Sudan, communities face urgent food crises. War Child’s team of local staff work from within to train farming families, especially those that are female-led, to develop sustainable farming methods. War Child continues to provide more than 2,200 households in South Sudan with agricultural and business training and harvesting techniques to increase their yields and sustain lands and natural resources.
PUBLISHER Amir Shirazi EDITOR IN CHIEF Denise Koprich Shirazi EDITOR Raye Mocioiu CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sergio D. Spadavecchia GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelly Laufer PRODUCTION MANAGER Allie Murray FINANCE DIRECTOR Marie LaVoie BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Liam Rowe CONTRIBUTORS Raye Mocioiu, Allie Murray, Victoria Andrievska, Kristy Siegried, Vanessa Grant, Enmanuel Castro SALES DIRECTOR Stephen McDermott ADVERTISING Heibrie Barron, Jacqueline Stewart, Venes Zukic, Coleby Smith, Christine Manchisi, Daniel Sette, Jonathan Ramlal Cover Photo © Kristin Shrader Published by IVY HOUSE MEDIA LIMITED. Headquarters: 2660 Sherwood Heights Drive, Suite 202 Oakville, Ontario • L6J 7Y8 - Office: 905-815-1500 info@globalheroes.com
In the face of so much happening around the world, it can often feel like there is no way to make a difference or that the impact of one person is too minor to be valuable.
“We want to ensure that everyone knows that they can help and that every bit counts,” Adams shared. “Your donations and support will have a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it the most. War Child’s programs are innovative, long-lasting, and offer vulnerable children opportunities to look forward to brighter andlearnmediasharingworkconsider“Ifsupports,”womeniseven“Supportingfutures.”financially,inincrementaldonations,thebestwaytohelptheandchildrenWarChildBellisariocontinued.adonationisn’tpossible,sharingWarChild’swithyournetworkbytheirpostsonsocialandinvitingpeopletomoreaboutthisvitalworkhowtheycangetinvolved.”WarChild’sgala,
resiliencerecovermostopportunitiesonCanadaNutt.economiceducation,alternativesofpeace“Realcommunities.progresstowardrequiresthepresencecompellingandconsistentthatemphasizeprotection,andself-reliance,”said“ThatiswhyWarChildwillcontinuetofocusthelongterm,investinginthatempowerthevulnerablecommunitiestoandrebuild—redefiningalongtheway.”LearnmoreaboutWarChildandhowyoucangetinvolvedat warchild.ca SARAH RAFFERTY, TROIAN BELLISARIO, ARWA DAMON, PATRICK J. ADAMS, AND SAMANTHA NUTT AT LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA.©
ATTEND THE GOOD FOR A LAUGH COMEDY FUNDRAISER FEATURING SARAH SILVERMAN AND FRIENDS TO SUPPORT WAR CHILD USA AT LARGO
THE CORONET ON MARCH 01, 2019 IN
The pair have held to that statement, joining War Child time and time again to participate in virtual galas, video appeals, and fundraising campaigns. In 2021, Bellisario participated in a campaign that spoke to the fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban and the plight of women, girls, and families. “As a woman and a mother, I added my voice to War Child’s Afghanistan campaign to help shed light on a humanitarian crisis that unfortunately isn’t getting the attention it deserves,” the actress shared. “We seem to have abandoned the people of Afghanistan at a time when they need us the most. While the world’s focus was on trying to get people out of Afghanistan, we neglected to remember the 98 per cent of women and girls who don’t have the opportunity to flee.”
“We were introduced to War Child through our good friends, Thomas Sadoski and Amanda Seyfried,” said Bellisario. “They are War Child Ambassadors and were helping to organize a fundraiser in Los Angeles. It was a comedy night—Sarah Silverman and Friends—to raise vital funds for War Child’s work, and we were happy to attend and support their efforts. That evening, War Child’s founder Samantha Nutt spoke about the organization. What she had to say about the experiences children face when living with war and conflict resonated with us—especially as new parents at the time.” Inspired by War Child’s mission to protect children from the brutal impact of war by providing them with education, the resources they need to escape poverty, and access to legal protection, Bellisario and Adams have been using their influence to spread awareness for children in war-affected communities all over the world.
Allied Bellisario and Patrick J. Adams Join War Child
War Child has been working in Afghanistan for 20 years and has a long track record of providing critical support to women, girls, and families. “After the Taliban took over, many international organizations fled the country. War Child stayed,” Bellisario continued. “The staff are local and understand how to navigate this new reality. War Child is currently providing emergency education to at-risk children. They are also working with vulnerable women— providing skills training and cash transfers—so that they can operate small businesses and earn money to support their families. This is especially important as Afghanistan faces an acute food security crisis. Adding my voice to War Child’s campaign was a small way that I could try to bring attention to this very dire humanitarian crisis.” Women and children are the most vulnerable during times of crisis in war-torn communities, and the COVID-19 pandemic was no exception. During the pandemic, Bellisario and Adams joined a host of actors, musicians and athletes in a video appeal supporting War Child. Along with War Child frontline staff from across the world, the pair made a passionate appeal to donate to War Child’s critical work with war-affected children and their families to support and empower the most vulnerable communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have so much empathy for parents whose children BellisarioChild’stoandusmoremoreofschool,arefromhavesuffering—thosearewhobeenforcedtheirhomes,notabletogotowhoareatriskharm…ItmakesitimportantandmeaningfulfortouseourvoicesourresourcessupportWarcriticalwork,”explained.
“Having children can definitely impact how you see the world and your place in it, and it has for us,” Adams said of what drew him to War Child. “As parents, you only want what is best for your children—to keep them safe, happy, and healthy. It’s incredibly hard to fathom the trauma that children who experience war go through.”
PHOTO BY RICH FURY/GETTY IMAGES The power of positive, solution-based journalism. globalheroes.com September • 2022
THE THAT’SWORLDPOSSIBLE War Child supports more than 600,000 women, children, and families every year. They provide numeracy and literacy classes to vulnerable women and catch-up education to children who have missed out on years of schooling. They work with women and youth, offering skills training and small business loans so that they become less aid dependent and lift their families out of poverty, and protect the rights of women and children through access to justice programs. It’s a long-term holistic approach that seeks to end cycles of violence and poverty and sets up women and children to look forward to brighter futures. What makes it possible is the fact that 99 per cent of War Child’s staff are locals to the communities the organization works with, allowing them to build systems of change and empowerment not just for these communities but within them.
(L-R)
for Children: Troian
A MISSION RESONATESTHAT
The World That’s Possible, takes place this winter at Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum on December 5th. The gala, an exclusive fundraising event, seeks to celebrate humanity’s vast potential, stir the imagination, and inspire us to create the world that’s possible. Funds raised will provide conflictaffected children and families with essential programs that give them the chance to escape cycles of violence and poverty and create a brighter future for themselves and their
Pretty Little Liars actress Troian Bellisario and Suits star Patrick J. Adams, who use their platforms to advocate for War Child’s incredible impact.
Empowering Youth for Climate Action
With 34 people on CHKC’s current wait list, people with a combination of hearing and sight loss will have access to affordable housing.
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LSF sees results. After partic ipating in LSF’s programs, 99.7 per cent of teachers confirmed that the Action Projects resulted in their students modifying their behaviour to be more sustainable or focused on combating climate change, and 99.4 per cent con firmed that the Action Projects increased their students’ aware ness and understanding of how to combat climate change.
One of the popular wellness activities is a Forest Therapy Walk. Forest Therapy or ‘Shinrin-yoku’ means spending time in nature to create healing interactions. This requires mindfully moving through the landscape in ways that cultivate presence, using all your senses to actively communicate with the land and be in touch with yourself. These walks are a slow and mindful experience that can combine walking, sitting, standing, or laying down. Forest Therapy opportunities are currently being offered by the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (Kingston area), Credit Valley Conservation (Mississauga), Kawartha Conservation (Peterborough area), Quinte Conservation (near Belleville), and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
Follow and Like us on Twitter(@ONConservationAreas),Facebook(@conont),andInstagram(@con_ont)!
HEALTHY HIKES Another way to connect with nature is through our Step Into Nature Healthy Hikes campaign. Every year from the first Monday in May to October 31, we challenge Ontarians to take a hike or a stroll at a con servation area so they can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of being in nature. We challenge you to unplug, discon nect, and recharge by just spending time in nature. Snap a selfie and share it on social media with the hashtags #StepIntoNature and #HealthyHikes. Tag Conservation Ontario in your post. The trails are waiting—plan your conservation area visit and learn more about Step Into Nature Healthy Hikes at ontarioconservationareas.cawww.
STEP INTO NATURE HEALTHY HIKES 300+ CONSERVATION AREAS JUST WAITING TO BE EXPLORED
When a group of students in Métissur-Mer, Québec, learned about the importance of pollinators in glob al food supplies, they took a deep dive into learning about bees and their habitats. This lesson was not a regular science class but rather a student-led, curriculum-linked Action Project funded by Learning for a Sustainable Future (LSF), a Canadian charity that works to integrate sustainability education into the school system. Throughout the year, the stu dents researched and studied the topic before taking a proactive ap proach in their community to help protect the bee population. They created a “No Mow May” infor mation campaign that encouraged community members not to mow their lawns or remove dandelions and wildflowers in the spring when food is harder for bees to find. They dropped information leaflets in lo cal post boxes, published an article in the local newspaper, talked to their town council, and shared vid eos on social media while also plant ing their own pollinator garden.
In the 2021-2022 school year, LSF’s Youth Forums, Action Projects, websites and resources impacted and educated 160,532 students, 162,188 teachers, and 101,436 community members across Canada. Students impact ed by LSF programs gain the knowledge, skills, values, per spectives and practices essential to a sustainable future. Climate change is a pressing global issue, and education is critical to help people of all ages understand the impacts and em power them to take action. Canadians agree. In a 2022 survey by LSF, 67 per cent of Canadians agreed that climate change should be a high priority for schooling and 71 per cent of Canadian teachers feel that the education system needs to do much more to educate about climateHowever,change.for education to be an effective and purposeful part of the fight against climate change, teachers must feel equipped to take on this challenging endeavour. The same study found that over half of teachers need more climate change resources and professional devel opment to teach climate change in their classrooms. That’s where Learning for a Sustainable Future comes in. LSF is a national charity founded in 1991 to integrate sustainability education into the Canadian school system. It helps students see that they can make real change in their classrooms, in their homes, and in their communities. They provide professional development, teaching resources, Youth Forums, and fund ing for Action Projects, which are student-led projects that promote sustainability in a local community.
ONTARIOCONSERVATIONAREAS.CA
“The new apartment building will also house a 6,500 sq. ft. state-of-the-art Training Centre where Canadians who are deafblind can gain important life-skills to aid in their independence, along with other programs and services to support all the tenants in the building,” added Robbins. “We still have some heavy work ahead of us,” says Philip Corke, Chair, Board of Directors, CHKC. “CHKC has to fundraise an additional $6,000,000 for the build, so that we are fully operational upon its completion and can meet the needs of our consumers. We are confident we can do this and help more Canadians who are deafblind live moreCHKC’sindependently.”important work has had a tremendous impact on the deafblind community for 30 years, and with this new announcement, it will continue with its mission to empower the deafblind community through client-driven services and opportunities that maximize independence. For more information, visit chkc.org. of positive, solution-based
While the effects of a “No Mow May” Action Project in one Canadian community may seem small, the compounding effects make a difference. Every action— whether it’s eliminating single-use plastics at a school, motivating a community to reduce their car bon footprint, or planting a school garden—makes progress towards a more sustainable future. And col lectively, the results are impressive.
RENDERING OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING © COURTESY OF CANADIAN HELEN KELLER CENTRE The power
To learn more about LSF’s available resources, upcoming Youth Forums, and how to start your own Action Project, visit www.LSF-LST.caPICKERING COLLEGE IN NEWMARKET, ONMÉTIS BEACH SCHOOL © IMAGES COURTESY OF LEARNING FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
FOREST THERAPY WALKS
Nurtured by Nature—for the Mind, Body, and Spirit
Recent research shows that getting out into nature has tremendous benefits to our health, reducing stress and anxiety, improving physical fitness, and promoting healing. In 2021, more than 10 million people visited conservation areas year-round across Ontario. Conservation areas are Ontario’s secret gems. They come in differ ent sizes and are spotted across the province in all directions. They’re owned and operated by Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities, which are local watershed management agencies that deliver a wide vari ety of environmental watershed programs and services. There are more than 300 con servation areas open to the general public and while you can find a lot of them around the Greater Toronto Area they are also located as far north as Timmins or as far east as the Québec border. You’ll find them nestled next to south west Ontario’s farmland and they also skirt along the Great Lakes shorelines and Georgian Bay. If you’re a first-time visitor, out door enthusiast, or environmental educator, Conservation Ontario’s new conservation areas website can help you plan your visit or find the conservation area that meets yourTheseneeds.natural areas play import ant environmental, educational, and recreational roles in Ontario. Their forests, wetlands, and other vegetation along lakes, rivers, and streams help us to adapt to climate change by cooling the air and im proving water quality. They help to reduce flood risk and preserve areas of scientific significance and natural heritage, as well as provide habitat for a wide range of birds, fish, and other wildlife, which you can see on your visits. And they can help you to improve your own physical and mentalResearchhealth.tells us that camping in a park, strolling or cycling along a waterfront trail, snowshoeing through a forest, having a picnic next to a waterfall, or watching birds and other wildlife in natural spaces helps to lower blood pres sure, recharge emotional batteries, encourage physical activity and enable us to be in a more mindful space. We push away the pressures of work and life—even for a short time—and focus on the scenery, scents, and experiences of nature. We connect with others by social izing and creating relationships.
Canadian Helen Keller Centre is Growing Making independence for the deafblind community a reality
JONES FALLS © CONSERVATION ONTARIO
More than 300 Conservation Areas are just waiting to be explored across Ontario
For 30 years Canadian Helen Keller Centre (CHKC) has provided affordable and fully accessible housing to the deafblind community. In the Willowdale neighbourhood of Toronto, 16 tenants, each of whom are deafblind, can live as independently as possible in the comfort of their own onebedroom apartment. In addition, CHKC provides up to 24 hours of Intervenor Services for people who are deafblind. That includes the 16 people who live at the Willowdale residence, as well as 18 outreach clients who live independently or with family and friends somewhere in Ontario. What is an intervenor? Well, an intervenor is a specialized and highly skilled individual who acts as the eyes and ears of a person who is deafblind. They help facilitate communication between the individual with deafblindness and their environment either at doctor appointments, trips to the bank, grocery shopping, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee at the local Tim Horton’s. CHKC also operates a Training Centre in Willowdale, where people who are deafblind can receive personalized lifeskills training, such as learning to cook more independently, new communication methods, orientation and mobility, as well as attending social clubs that help them connect with people like them, and with those in the general population. It’s an exciting time at CHKC. In July, CHKC received federal capital funding through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) to build a new affordable and supportive housing building in Etobicoke, on 150 Eighth Street. The fully accessible and affordable apartment complex will include over 56 units of one, two and three bedrooms, 50 per cent of which will be reserved for Canadians who are deafblind. The remainder of the units will be reserved for people with general disabilities and from vulnerable populations in need of affordable housing. This latest development will ensure that CHKC can further meet the housing needs of Canadians who are deafblind.
Jennifer Robbins, Executive Director, CHKC says, “This is fantastic news for CHKC and the people we serve. This exciting new initiative will allow us to reach more Canadians with deafblindness, ensuring they can live as independently as possible.”
© PEXELS/RODNAE PRODUCTIONS
FOCUS FORWARD TO BETTER YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH WES FOR YOUTH ONLINE DONATE TODAY. BIT.LY/FOCUSFORWARD3
AMAL CLOONEY: One of our initiatives, ‘TrialWatch,’ monitors criminal trials in over 40 countries. Once local monitors whom we train up monitor a trial, we get some of the world’s leading legal experts to grade the trials and expose those that are a sham. Then we work with local lawyers to free those who are imprisoned. ‘The Docket’ gathers evidence of war crimes and genocide, from Ukraine to the Congo, Darfur, to Venezuela and Iraq, and represents survivors in trials where perpetrators are in the dock. Our newest initiative is ‘Waging Justice for Women.’ We work hand-in-hand with young women in Africa to pursue their rights through the courts and run ‘women for women’ legal aid clinics that provide free legal support to women and girls who are victims of gender-based discrimination. All of this work is dedicated to advancing accountability for abuse because we believe that if you expose and raise the cost of abusive behaviour, it is less likely to recur.
The power of positive, solution-based journalism.
George and Amal Clooney are Waging Justice Worldwide RAYE MOCIOIU “George’s father always said that the most important thing in life is to challenge people with power and defend people with no power. He says if you do that, you succeed,” said human rights lawyer and Clooney Foundation for Justice co-founder Amal Clooney. This inspired the couple to set up the Clooney Foundation for Justice (CFJ), which provides free legal support to victims of abuse of power. From women to journalists, to survivors of atrocities, to LGBTQ+ people to democracy defenders, CFJ aids in access to justice, helping those in need to fight for their rights. We sat down with the Clooneys to discuss their upcoming Albie Awards, CFJ’s work in Ukraine, and what it means to wage justice in an everchanging world.
YOU ARE HOSTING YOUR INAUGURAL ‘ALBIE AWARDS’ THIS SEPTEMBER, WHICH WILL SHINE A LIGHT ON JUSTICE WARRIORS AT RISK—WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE AWARDS?
AMAL: In our work, we come across many heroic people on the frontlines of the fight for justice, putting their lives at risk. As a lawyer, I have represented countless people who faced prison simply because they challenged those in power—as journalists, judges, or politicians. George has worked with activists and aid workers in some of the most dangerous parts of the world. They were focused on all kinds of causes—women, refugees, democracy—but what they had in common was that they wouldn’t back down from the fight for justice, no matter the cost. This event will shine a light on five courageous individuals who have put themselves at risk in the fight for justice. We hope the award will have a protective force on them.
Young Bilinguals Make French in Canada Thrive
GH: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WAGE JUSTICE? HOW CAN THAT BE DONE?
There are many reasons to support bilingualism: our two official lan guages are a fundamental element of the Canadian identity; English and French are part of our society, our culture and our history; both languages are also a tool of inclu sion as it allows new immigrants to fully integrate into their new country. And the list goes on! A vast majority of Canadians support official bilingualism and the Official Languages Act, as published recently in a survey by the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages. In Ontario, year after year, parents look to enrol their children in a French as a second language (FSL) program. French immersion, for instance, is proven to be a successful path to bilingualism. Enrolment in this program has been growing steadily at an average of 5.3 per cent per Unfortunately,year. not all stu dents in Ontario are guaranteed a spot in French immersion or other FSL programs, as there are not as many available spaces as there is demand. Organizations like Canadian Parents for French Ontario (CPF) have been ad vocating and working for more than 40 years for universal access to ensure every Canadian has the opportunity to learn French and has access to the FSL program that meets their needs and goals. As of the 2020–2021 school year, there are more than one million students enrolled in a FSL program in Ontario. About a quarter of those students— approximately 250,000—are enrolled in French immersion. This program, delivered by English school boards, provides the highest intensity of French and is recognized for yielding strong test results for Grade 12 students opting to measure their language proficiency with a certified test. Upon graduation, these bi lingual Canadians contribute to the flourishing of the French language at a time when it is needed the most. Whether it is by continuing their studies in French, by using it at work or by connecting with Francophone native speakers, their role is key in ensuring the vitality of French and the growth of bilingualism in Ontario and the country. Could you imagine how much more impactful this would be if every student in Canada were guaranteed a spot in the FSL program of their choice? There are many issues that make this harder to achieve, for example right now there is a shortage of teachers of French as a second language. For schools and gov ernments to offer more spaces to students, they need more qualified teachers. Luckily, both the provincial and feder al governments have allocated funds to address this shortage and support the recruitment and retention of FSL teachers. CPF is also doing its part to address this issue. CPF Ontario launched last year SayOui.ca, a website to increase awareness of the demand for French teachers. This website is part of a cam paign to encourage secondary and undergraduate university students to explore a career in teaching. At the national level, to get to the heart of why any one might consider a teaching position, CPF is leading an over arching public awareness cam paign called My Raison d’Être . Its purpose is to increase the visibil ity of the profession, as teaching is about making a difference and impacting the lives of students for the better, and teaching in French is no different. When parents enrol their children in a FSL program, they are providing them with tools for better opportunities and a chance for success. Additionally, they are also contributing to bilingualism in the country, making Canada better. Learn more about Canadian Parents for French, French as a second language education and more by visiting cpf.ca
GEORGE CLOONEY: Our mission is waging justice to create a world where human rights are protected and no one is above the law. We believe we have to wage justice because justice doesn’t just happen. Peace, like war, must be waged. And justice, too, is something we must fight for, especially now as we see countries worldwide backsliding on human rights. At CFJ, we provide free legal support to victims of abuses of power: journalists who are locked up just for doing their job and telling the truth; young girls who are denied the right to study or work or the right to decide who to marry; minorities who are targeted for genocide. We help them to fight for their rights through the courts.
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It is often during difficult transitional periods that we need the most support. For young people, who are commonly faced with overwhelming stress and anxiety from school, relationships, and their families, this support can be the key to finding success and building the foundation for better mental health. Wellness & Emotional Support for Youth Online (WFYO) provides free, professional virtual counselling to youth ages 13-24 in Ontario. In June of 2022, WFYO celebrated 10 years of service, a milestone event that looked back on how much help and support the organization has been able to provide for young people across the province. Since their inception in 2012, WFYO has provided counselling to over 3,000 youth in Ontario. Over this next year, WFYO will feature stories of hope from youth, donors, and supporters of the organization to help inspire better youth mental health. In a culture still cautious about talking about mental health concerns and with long waitlists, youth seek out WFYO’s services to address a wide range of issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, school stress, and more. WFYO provides ongoing counselling, which is critical to allow youth the opportunity to develop a trusting relationship with their counsellor. WFYO understands that mental health is complicated, and the concerns of youth need time and trust to work through. The organization provides a safe and inclusive space for youth to receive ongoing support and develop coping skills for all they areInfacing.honour of WFYO’s 10th anniversary, the organization launched a redeveloped virtual service and brand new hybrid mobile app that not only makes counselling services more accessible to youth, but also provides opportunities for youth to connect with WFYO counsellors in new ways. Youth can connect with their counsellor through the asynchronous emailto-email option, the live chat function, or through video call, all within the safety of their secure platform. Youth will be able to access WFYO’s service and app anywhere they feel comfortable and will also have the option to express themselves through creative means using their media submission centre. This redeveloped platform, along with WFYO’s vision for the next decade, is all about focusing forward: meeting youth where they are and ensuring they can receive the support they want, when they want it, and how they want it—to better their mental health,WFYOtogether.isseeking donations for their Focus Forward campaign to fund the counselling costs of evidence-based care for youth mental health. Their goal is to raise $320,000 to fund 2,000 hours of therapy, removing barriers and assisting with reducing youth mental health waitlists and wait times across the province of DonateOntario.totheir “Focus Forward” campaign at bit.ly/focusforward3
CONT. NEXT PAGE © BEATRICE MORITZ PHOTOGRAPHY 2019 © PHOTO COURTESY OF WES FOR YOUTH ONLINE
Furthering bilingualism by promoting and creating opportunities for students to learn and use French. Learn more at CPF.CA
WES for Youth Online: A Safe Space for Young People
AS HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVISTS AND PUBLIC FIGURES, YOU HAVE BOTH SHARED THE SENTIMENT THAT THE PURSUIT OF JUSTICE IS NOT JUST A PASSION BUT A DUTY. HOW DO YOU STAY HOPEFUL IN THE PURSUIT OF JUSTICE AT THIS MOMENT IN HISTORY?
DO YOU BLEED TOO MUCH? You may have an undiagnosed bleeding disorder.
AMAL: The awardees are remarkable. Our Albie Award for journalists is going to the extraordinary Filipino journalist Maria Ressa who faces a lifetime behind bars for her work in the Philippines, exposing government abuses through her reporting. Our Albie for survivors goes to iACT—a group supporting refugees in dangerous war zones that worked with CFJ to gather evidence for a trial against a Sudanese militia leader for crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court. Our Albie for democracydefenders goes to human rights group Viasna—one of the leading NGOs in Belarus, documenting abuses and helping survivors for nearly 30 years. This one may have to be an empty chair: both of the organization’s leaders are in jail, and more than half of the team has been forced to flee the country. And finally, the Albie for wom en goes to Dr. Josephine Kulea on behalf of the Samburu Girls Foundation (SGF). This organi zation helps to provide safe refuge for girls looking to escape child marriage, female genital mutila tion, and other harmful practices. SGF has been able to provide a safe place to live for over 1,500 girls in Kenya and place them in schools around the country, despite facing significant threats and abuse from men seeking to assert control over the girls.
GEORGE: We are also tracking the activities of the Kremlin-backed mer cenary Wagner Group. And President Zelensky appointed Amal to a work ing group of international experts to advise on international mechanisms for victims to access justice and compensation to rebuild their lives. We hope that those responsible for the crimes we see every day will be brought to trial—in Ukraine, The Hague, or elsewhere—and we will continue to assist Ukrainian survivors until that happens
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The good news is that strug gling to learn how to read and write is no indication of failure on anyone’s part. Reading is some thing many of us take for granted. Most of us pick up the basics as preschoolers from older family members and fine-tune our skills once we enter elementary school.
GEORGE: And now Amal is working to prosecute the first Janjaweed leader at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Journalists and opposition who’ve been behind bars with little hope have been released one after the other. Just last year, Amal represented a Yazidi victim of ISIS in what became the first conviction of an ISIS fighter for genocide anywhere in the world. Justice for war crimes is not easy or swift. But we must continue the fight.
THE NAME OF THE AWARDS COMES FROM ACTIVIST AND FORMER JUDGE ALBERT SACHS—WHAT LED TO THE DECISION TO NAME THE AWARDS IN HIS HONOUR?
WHO ARE THE OTHER AWARDEES?
Bleeding Too Much for a Woman is NOT Normal!
Help is available at bit.ly/coderougeEN
Unfortunately, the trajectory to proficient reading isn’t always this straightforward. Each year across Ontario, about 20 per cent of Grade 1 students will have significant difficulty pick ing up the basic building blocks that prepare them for a lifetime of reading and literacy. The Canadian Institute of Reading Recovery is here to help. For decades, the Canadian Institute of Reading Recovery, a national charitable organization, has worked behind the scenes to help young learners. Reading Recovery is an intensive 20-week early intervention that pairs Grade 1 students who have the most difficulty learning to read and write with specially trained teachers for just 30 minutes every school day. Each teacher is trained to adapt to the learning needs and strengths of the child, with each lesson building on existing knowledge and books that match the child’s interests andEachexperiences.year,atypical Reading Recovery trained teacher works one-on-one with eight to 12 Reading Recovery students and 2,040 other students. Each teacher is trained by a Teacher Leader who supports the imple mentation of Reading Recovery and other literacy initiatives across an entire school district. Working with a highly skilled teacher for about 40 hours of targeted instruction means chil dren like Hailey can catch up with their peers so they are well equipped for the rest of their educational journey. According to Cheryl, thanks to the inter vention, school, and Hailey’s teacher, she is well on her way to enjoying a lifetime of reading.
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To learn more about Reading Recovery or l’intervention préventive en lecture-écriture, or to find out how to ensure students like Hailey can learn to read and write in Grade 1, visit rrcanada.org
previous, bleeding episodes are normal or abnormal. More information, tools and help can be found through the
“Hailey now looks forward to reading!”
THE CANADIAN INSTITUTE FOR READING RECOVERY IS A REGISTERED CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION, DEDICATED TO SUPPORTING EARLY LITERACY LEARNING FOR CHILDREN ACROSS CANADA. © COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN INSTITUTE FOR READING RECOVERY TO LEARN MORE EARLY LITERACY INTERVENTION FOR GRADE 1 STUDENTS—CANADIAN INSTITUTE OF READING RECOVERY
Whatever It Takes: Specialized Teachers Help Children Learn to Read and Write
AMAL: Our work representing survivors in Ukraine is the same work we’ve done in many other conflicts. We have a team on the ground in Ukraine investigating potential war crimes—we gather evidence and share it with prosecutors in Ukraine and around the world. We have tech experts working with Microsoft to analyze open-source material and satellite imagery so that we can present that evidence to the International Criminal Court. We are tracking cases of sexual and gender-based violence against women.
AMAL: George always reminds our team that we will most likely fail time and time again, but we have to keep trying. Failing is a natural part of a difficult journey. George was raising awareness about atrocities committed by the government and ‘Janjaweed’ militias in Darfur two decades ago.
Prolonged bleeding after dental procedures Abnormal bleeding after surgery or trauma
Easy bruising Frequent and prolonged nosebleeds
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding Abnormal bleeding after childbirth
TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK IN UKRAINE. WHAT DOES JUSTICE LOOK LIKE IN THIS CASE?
GEORGE: We met Albie with Justice Sonya Sotomayor in New York about four years ago—but we had heard about his work long before. He’s an incredibly hon ourable and brave man. He was an anti-apartheid activist who was detained in South Africa for his work, and the South African secu rity forces tried to assassinate him through a car bombing. He lost his arm and his sight in one eye, and he just kept going. Kept fighting. He was one of the lawyers who drafted South Africa’s constitution, and Nelson Mandela appointed him to serve on the country’s highest court. When you think of fighting for justice, no matter what, you think of Albie, and that’s why he’s getting our inaugural lifetime achievement award and why this event will be called The Albies.
“When we’re reading at home, I can see her trying to get the words on her own instead of just looking at us to tell her the word,” she said. “We can see her trying to read her schoolwork more and more. We see her trying to use the skills she has learned. She wants to play ‘spell ing bee’ to spell words herself. She loves to leave little notes for her dad and I too!”
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“I still remember getting the call from the teacher. I was worried by some of the words used, like ‘at-risk’, but was relieved that Hailey was getting the help she so needed,” Cheryl explained.
SCH_CR_PUB_8_97x1_6.indd 1 2022-07-13 14:59 SHUTTERSTOCK_91653506 © COURTESY OF CANADIAN HEMOPHILIA SOCIETY
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“Your daughter seems to be hav ing difficulty learning to read and write.” These are alarming words for parents like Cheryl, who re members her fear when she met with her daughter Hailey’s Grade 1 teacher. The teacher suggested Hailey take part in specialized lessons at school to help her learn to read and write. Worry set in for Cheryl, who began to won der if she did not read to Hailey enough as a toddler.
GEORGE: The Albie Awards will be co-hosted by Darren Walker, a member of the CFJ Board and the President of the Ford Foundation. In addition, Nobel Laureates Nadia Murad and Maria Ressa, both brave women who pursue justice with Amal as their legal counsel, will be there, along with wellknown figures like Meryl Streep, Aloe Blacc, Matt Damon, John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, Dua Lipa, John Oliver, Julia Roberts, Bruce Springsteen, and Patti Scialfa. Dr. Denis Mukwege, another Nobel Laureate who is on CFJ’s Board, will be there along with other illustrious guests whom we are not announcing just yet…And we have leading corporations and firms supporting the event. We believe that—as a U.S. judge once said— sunlight is the best disinfectant. It is harder for governments and regimes to target journalists, women, and vulnerable groups when the world is watching.
“Extremely heavy periods ruled my life and I saw doctor af ter doctor. I had severe pain ful bruising after surgery and was told it was normal. Years this ridiculous phrase from their doctor after reporting that they felt they were bleeding too much when menstruating: “Some women bleed more than others… Don’t worry about it, it’s normal.” Well, let’s be clear about this: it’s not. much? What is normal versus abnormal bleeding? more during your period? Do you change your pad or tam pon every hour? Do you soak through your pants? Do you bruise easily? Do you suffer from prolonged bleeding after dental procedures? more of these questions, you may have a bleeding disorder. Aside from hemophilia, women with bleeding disorders tend to have more symptoms than men because of menstruation and childbirth. The most common inherited bleeding disorder, gets a diagnosis. After years of suffering, once diagnosed, effective treatment is available and a woman’s quality of life improves drastically. It chart will help you quantify the blood loss during menstruation. A Self-BAT , self-adminis tered bleeding assessment
COMMON SYMPTOMS OF BLEEDING DISORDERS:
“Volunteering with BBBS, in any capacity, is an opportunity for you to become the person you needed growing up,” Karine proclaims.
Connecting with a community agency could be the difference between youth achieving their full potential versus navigating a lifetime of adversity alone. Big Brothers Big Sisters across Canada serves as a lifeline, pairing children and youth with trained, caring adult volunteers through mentorship. When Karine Pomilia Gauthier’s family moved to Cornwall, her mother enrolled her in a local Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) core mentoring program to have a beneficial influence from outside the family. At the time, they were living in an abusive household. That single decision has shaped her life tremendously. It was then that she was matched with Pamela, her Big Sister. Thanks to Pamela, and the program, Karine learned much about herself and changed a lot. Though she graduated from the formal program, their relation shipThecontinues.long-term consistency of their eight-year supportive relationship helped shape Karine to become the strong, confident woman she is today. In contrast, she often thinks of peers who did not have the catalyst of a BBBS mentor to ignite that same confidence. Karine credits Big Brothers Big Sisters with playing an immense role in her life professionally, academically, andKarinepersonally.became a founding member of the BBBSC National Youth Mentoring Advisory Council, a consortium of youth who provide leadership and representation on youth issues. She testified before the Special Senate Committee on the Charitable Sector in 2019, sharing her experience and expertise. Her advocacy and passion for mentoring led her to join the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada Board in 2020.
Disability rights activist Tetiana Barantsova escaped the war in Ukraine in a wheelchair. Now she’s helping others with disabilities to do the same.
JAMIL, WASSIM, CASANDRA © COURTESY OF NEW CANADIANS CENTRE PETERBOROUGH YOU ARE THE REASON WHY NEWCOMERS AND THEIR FAMILIES CALL PETERBOROUGH HOME LEARN MORE AND DONATE AT NCCPETERBOROUGH.CA
‘I Just Can’t Stand Aside if I Know That I Can Help’
THIS ARTICLE FIRST APPEARED ON UNHCR.ORG
“After my first displacement in 2014, I knew—we need to Sheprepare.”began meeting with different ministries and state services to discuss how they would evacuate and support people with different types of disabilities in the event of an attack. “A person with hearing problems cannot hear the sound of sirens. A blind person cannot read the sign ‘Bomb Shelter’. All possible scenarios were thought of,” says Tetiana. But the scale of the war that started on 24 February took everyone by surprise. “We decided to leave immediately,” says Tetiana. “We made calls to people with disabilities who were living close to us, and in half an hour there were 18 people who had no means to leave and needed help.” She and her husband Oleksiy squeezed as many of them as they could into their specially adapted mini-van and drove west. Tetiana then returned to Ukraine with Oleksiy to help transport others to safety. They made several trips back and forth, spending long hours on the road, until Oleksiy collapsed and had to be admitted to hospital in Latvia. Now Tetiana relies on her many contacts with local authorities, NGOs and volunteers all over Ukraine to help evacuate people with disabilities who call her via the 24-hour hotline she set up. The hotline, which has seven different numbers, receives dozens of calls every day. Tetiana acknowledges the toll such work takes on her but describes it as a responsibility she cannot turn away from. “I don’t have a lot of strength,” she says. “But I just can’t stand aside if I know that I can help.”
“MAMA, THAT’S MY STORY!” Learning English, going to school, large supermarkets, snow and win ter, eating pizza for the first time— how do immigrant and refugee children navigate these new expe riences? How is it different from what their parents go through and what can we learn from them? With this in mind, the New Canadians Centre Peterborough commissioned the children’s book “Building A Home.” Six newcomer children from Syria, Kazakhstan, Mexico and Pakistan now living, playing, and going to school andinandweeks.artistworkedNogojiwanong-Peterborough,incloselywithnewcomerCasandraLeeoverseveralTheirmemories,reflectionsdrawingsabouttheirfirstdaysCanadainspiredthenarrativeillustrationsinthebook.
Connect today at bigbrothersbigsisters.ca to ignite the potential in children like Karine and Marcus.
“I believe that there will al ways be a place for mentors in the world. In today’s times, com ing out of COVID and the quite charged social climate, this is the perfect outlet. In terms of steering young individuals in the right di rection and helping them contin ue that way, there will always be a need for BBBS and this type of mentorship support,” says Marcus.
Building A Home in Canada Through the Eyes of Newcomer Children
PICTURED LEFT, MENTEE YASIN CONNECTING WITH MENTOR LEVI © COURTESY OF BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
TETIANA
BARANTSOVA AND UNHCR STAFF VISIT THE OBLAST CENTRE FOR COMPLEX REHABILITATION OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN VELYKYI BEREZNYI VILLAGE IN UKRAINE’S ZAKARPATTIA REGION. © UNHCR/IGOR KARPENKO The power of positive, solution-based journalism. globalheroes.com ADVERTORIALADVERTORIAL September • 2022
VICTORIA ANDRIEVSKA AND KRISTY SIEGFRIED Messages asking for help can appear on Tetiana Barantsova’s phone at any time of the day or night. This one comes via the messaging app Telegram from a bomb shelter in Sievierodonetsk, a city in eastern Ukraine that is under intense bombardment. “It is cold here and we don’t have water, there are no beds or mattresses or blankets, the city is constantly bombarded,” reads the message. “Please, please can anybody help us get out of the city? I hope this SMS will reach you.” The message is from Olha Chernozhukova, a 32-year-old woman with a spinal injury that confines her to a wheelchair. Like many people with disabilities living in Ukraine, Olha had Tetiana’s number in her phone. As soon as Tetiana received Olha’s message, she began working with local officials and NGOs. By the next day, Olha and her mother were on a train to Lviv in western Ukraine, where Tetiana had arranged for them to stay at a rehabilitation centre for people withTetianadisabilities.hasbeen helping people with disabilities escape conflict areas and restart their lives in safety since 2014, when she was forced to flee her home city of Luhansk in eastern Ukraine. After escaping by road, Tetiana set about organizing the evacuations of other people with disabilities. She turned her phone number into a hotline for those trapped in conflict zones and helped some 5,000 people to safety. For her work in 2014, and as the founder of Ami-Skhid, a regional network of NGOs that helps Ukrainians with disabilities, she was chosen as the regional winner for Europe of the 2020 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award. Since then, Tetiana has been advocating for more services and support for the estimated 6.6 million Ukrainians with disabilities. Her efforts were paying off, but by January of this year, she “sensed that something very bad is coming.”
“I asked my parents, ‘Is our holiday over?’ They said, ‘This is our home now, even though Canada’s colder.’” —“Building A Home” “Our hope is that this will pave the way for conversations in homes, classrooms, between friends, families, and neighbours to reflect on our own experiences and consider our role in helping those who are new to Canada to thrive and belong,” said Bhisham Ramoutar, the lead on this project. According to the Census, a combined 37.5 per cent of all Canadian children were either foreign-born or had at least one foreign-born parent (Statistics Canada, 2016). This proportion is expected to increase signifi cantly in the coming years. It emphasizes the important role that children with an immigrant background play in building bridges between the values, social norms, cultural practices, and languages of their families and those in Canada. The experience of creating “Building A Home” reinforced the message that the process and experience of immigration and set tling in Canada is not linear—it varies from family to family and for each member of the family. The narrative of the book honours this by providing a tool for adults to en gage with children and youth about the profound topics of loss and newAtbeginnings.thelaunch of the book in September 2021, all the children who inspired the book, the com munity translators and their fam ilies shared in the joy of seeing their work in print and pride in sharing it with others. “Mama, that’s my story!”, pointed out one of the young participants. Thanks to the generous support from donors and the United Way of Peterborough & District’s David Goyette and Victoria Pearce Arts Fund, over 150 families and every school in the Kawartha Pine Ridge and Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Boards received a copy of “Building A Home.”Thisyear, the New Canadians Centre aims to meet the demand for printed copies of the book from settlement agencies, partners, and newcomers across Canada. Funds raised towards the Peterborough Welcome Fund ensure that programs like this continue to spread the power of welcome and inclusion.
Adverse childhood experiences can last a lifetime. You can make sure they don’t! Big Brothers Big Sisters Connect at bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
Building Lifelines That Last a Lifetime
“We were building a home to call our very own. All the friendships and experiences helped me see we’re safe in a beautiful place to be.” —“Building A Home”
“Building a Home” is available in English, Spanish, Korean, Arabic, French, Mandarin, Bengali, Dari/Farsi, and Ukrainian. To read the book online and to order a copy, visit buildingahomenccpeterborough.ca/ or donate to the Peterborough Welcome Fund at nccpeterborough.ca/donate
“Each of these experiences has given me a new lens through which to view the value of this organization. Our board is dedi cated to seeing diversity at every level of the network and learning from these different perspectives. That’s the only way we can truly represent and benefit the youth we serve,” says Karine. “The BBBS equallywhichindividualagenciescommunity—volunteers,andpartners—fostersrelationshipsfromweallbenefit,”sheadds.LikeKarine,thepathforMarcus,aformerLittle,wasrewarding.Today,Marcus is a podcaster and an Under Armour employee. He joined the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto (BBBST) program in his early teens, with the encouragement of his mother. A single parent, she understood the value of a healthy developmental relationship and having a role model to guide her son. “From my own experience, I can say that the program saved my life. Especially speaking as a young Black individual—if I hadn’t joined BBBST and if I hadn’t had a Big Brother who helped me find the passion and purpose that I have today, I don’t know where I would be.
Learn more at www.esssupportservices.ca
In the university laboratory where she took the samples, associate Professor Anna Sanchez Vidal, 45, said the aim of the project was to obtain scientific data on the origins of the plastic pollution, its components, and how it varied over time. Notably, microplastics come from many different sources, including people who leave plastic litter on the beach, industrial discharge, or water runoff or wastewater that is then carried out to the sea through rivers.
The power of positive, solution-based journalism.
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On a Barcelona beach popular with bathers, 22-year-old student and paddle boarder Naia Alberdi pointed to a piece of plastic film and coloured particles inside a sample bag she had removed from the tip of the trawling mesh. “If they really knew they were swimming around plastic, there wouldn’t be so many people coming here,” she said.
BIG, BOLD + BOREAL VisitTOborealwildlands.caLEARNMORE
Whether you need some assistance with independent living to remain comfortably in your own home, or you’re a caregiver who could use extra support, here to help.
The Nature Conservancy of Canada has launched a campaign to protect the Boreal Wildlands the largest private land conservation project in Canadian history.
On Earth Day 2022, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) was proud to join with partners, including the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and Domtar Inc., to launch a project to purchase and con serve the Boreal Wildlands. It is the largest, boldest private na ture conservation undertaking ever in Canada. The project will secure and care for nearly 1,500 square kilometres in the heart of northernImagineOntario.anatural area spanning twice the footprint of the city of Toronto, criss-crossed by 1,300 kilometres of rivers, streams and shorelines. Nestled within the larg est forest system on the planet, this area provides habitat for moose, wolf, lynx and threatened wood land caribou. It is also a precious nursery for North American birds. This is the Boreal Wildlands. This area of northern Ontario faces threats, such as intensifying industrial development and other human uses. In the face of these pressures, and two of the most pressing crises in the world—bio diversity loss and climate change— nature conservation offers a real solution. NCC has accepted the challenge to do more to protect nature, accelerating the long-term conservation of Canada’s lands and waters at an unprecedented pace andOncescale.complete, the Boreal Wildlands project will protect forests in what is often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth.” The boreal forest in Canada holds more than 10 per cent of the world’s total land-based carbon reserves, and peatlands that ab sorb and store significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Boreal Wildlands alone stores carbon equivalent to the lifetime emissions from three million cars. Capitalizing on this tremendous storage capacity, NCC is develop ing its first carbon credit program in Ontario. Proceeds from carbon credits sold from this project will contribute to even more conserva tion across the country. Boreal Wildlands is the future of conservation; it is modelled on a “whole-of-society” ap proach that brings together a diversity of partners to ensure there is room for everyone to participate in addressing our most pressing issues. The project contributes to the Government of Canada’s commitment to con serve 30 per cent of our lands and waters by 2030. The Nature Conservancy of Canada and its partners are seeking lasting conservation outcomes that also honour Indigenous relationships with the land, such as access for harvesting and space for knowledge-sharing. A joint research project with a local Indigenous community, monitoring woodland caribou populations, is already underway. Since launching the fundrais ing appeal to secure the Boreal Wildlands project, NCC has re ceived overwhelming support from around the globe. But your support is still needed to help NCC buy and protect this natural area. Once we reach our fundraising goal, we can ensure the lands and waters of the natural area are protected and cared for, for generations to come. For a stunning, bird’s-eye view of this area, and to join us in making history, visit borealwildlands.ca
Surfing Scientists Hunt Microplastics off Spanish Beaches
ESS is committed to supporting seniors in their desire to keep the things they need and want in their lives, like remaining in their own homes and communities. With community programs offered in-person and virtually, in-home services, and compassionate care focused on the needs of older adults and their family members, ESS makes it possible for older adults to continue doing so. At the same time, these programs are a welcome respite for families and caregivers who could use extra support, allowing them to take needed breaks to rest and recharge while having peace of mind that their family members are safe andThesupported.community programs and in-home services offered by ESS support independence, social con nection, wellness, food security, and caregiver respite, but the impact of these programs doesn’t stop there. Grocery and food hamper deliv ery services help older community members access affordable food; social, recreational, and wellness group programs, including exer cise classes for all levels and abilities, provide new and exciting ways to stay active; and safe and affordable transportation is provided to and from medical and non-emergency hospital appointments, commu nity programs, grocery trips, and social outings. As well, ESS provides services for older adults who need more extensive support, including en gaging adult day programs; se cure and comfortable overnight respite accommodation and care for older adults who have memory impairments, chronic illnesses, or physical disabilities; and in-home support for personal care, home making, and meal preparation. Caregivers have access to the Caregiver Support Group, where they can comfortably share experi ences and learn tips about caregiv ing for someone with Alzheimer’s or other memory impairments. Educational resources, supports and networking opportunities are available for those caring for adults with developmental and intellectualVolunteersdisabilities.anddonors who support the work of ESS are es sential in helping provide needed community support services and programs for older adults and their caregivers. Funders and donors have helped ESS build upon existing programs and introduce new services to meet community needs, such as food delivery programs and opening a new overnight respite and adult day program facility. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteer help in the ESS mobile food bank, grocery delivery ser vices, and adult day program, to donations that make a difference.
ESS
Helping you where you need it most
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Throughout the pandemic, many families worried about how their parents and grandparents, being seniors, would fare living on their own and how the isolating nature of health and safety protocols would impact them. Even before the virus spread, maintaining independence in older age was a concern among many adults and families. As Toronto’s population ages, this will continue to be a topic of consideration, leading to some critical questions: How can we support older adults in leading and maintaining active, inde pendent, and healthy lives in their neighbourhoods, communities, andESS,homes?anEtobicoke-based not-forprofit community support agency, accredited with exemplary standing by Accreditation Canada, was created in 1983 to help older adults maintain independence in their homes and stay active and connected in their community. As of 2018, Etobicoke had the highest percentage of seniors in the city, at 16.1 per cent. The 2018 census also shared that many of those seniors were over the age of 75 and were living alone.
Maintaining Independence in Older Age
Phone: 416-243-0127 Email: agency@esssupportservices.ca
COURTESY
Mounted on paddle boards or kayaks with special trawling nets attached to them, scientists and volunteers crisscross the waters just off Barcelona’s beaches collecting unsightly algae mixed with tiny pieces of plastic. Created by the University of Barcelona in 2020, the “Surfing for Science” project to study microplastic pollution in shallow areas inaccessible to oceanographic research ships is now expanding from the Mediterranean coast in Spain’s northeast to the Atlantic coast in the northwest. It has involved 300 volunteers over the past two years and will now bring in more “citizen scientists” in the regions of Catalonia and the Basque Country who are trained to collect the samples and work on all stages of the study, project coordinators said.
“Knowing what has reached the ocean allows us to know where we have to act on land,” she said, adding that the main emphasis so far was on singleuseAcontainers.samplefrom last October contained 70,000 plastic bits, including foam, polystyrene, fragments of water bottle caps or polyethylene bags, suggesting a concentration of 45 pieces per square metre—the highest reading ever in the study and one of the highest in the whole Mediterranean, she said. When deciding on what samples to analyze, the volunteers use a lightweight trawl attached to the back of their board. The trawl, which was designed specifically for this project, includes a microplastics fishing net that catches all plastic particles bigger than 0.3mm.
“Since we know the distance the paddle surf has travelled, we can calculate the concentration of microplastics at each trawl site at a given time,” their web site reads. “We also characterise the plastics so as to pinpoint their source. Properties such as colour, shape, and the polymer of each microplastic gives us ample information to predict its origin.” (Source: Reuters)
A VOLUNTEER REMOVES A CRAWL NET FROM THE SEA DURING A RESEARCH PROJECT “SURFING FOR SCIENCE”VOLUNTEERS HOLD A PADDLE SURF WITH A NET CRAWL AT SANT SEBASTIA BEACH © ALL IMAGES REUTERS/ALBERT GEA MARINE SCIENTIST ANNA SANCHEZ VIDAL SHOWS MICROPLASTICS COLLECTED FROM THE SEA WITH A MICROSCOPE Big, Bold, and Boreal
“My parents have remained safe and thriving in this new world. ESS has enabled my parents, and our family, to re-imagine their lives in the safety of their own home. They have activities to look forward to and they are both proud of their accomplishments.” —Caregiver Learn more at www.esssupportservices.ca
Experts and environmental activists at the UN Ocean Conference in June warned that plastic pollution was a growing threat to marine life and humans. Eleven million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean each year and that could triple by 2040 unless production and use of throwaway containers are reduced, studies show.
© OF SUPPORT SERVICES
TOP: CANADA WARBLER © ALEXANDER JARDINE; BOTTOM: LYNX © MIKE DEMBECK
For 44 years and counting, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre has been a platform for queer artists and queer stories. Established in 1979 and located in downtown Toronto’s queer village, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre is the world’s largest and longest-running queer theatre, a pillar of the community and of Canadian live performance. Over its four decades of opera tion, Buddies has premiered over 1,000 new works, alongside two annual festivals—the Rhubarb Festival and Queer Pride Festival —and intergenerational commu nity-focused programming. But beyond the stage, Buddies has also been a place for queer artists to nurture their creative endeavours. The Emerging Creators Unit, an intensive, artist-driven, men tor-supported model for creatives, works with a small cohort of art ists each year to develop their artistic practice and production skills. The program’s focus shifts from year to year, continuous ly broadening its horizons and exploring new mediums of per formance and expression, thus expanding the range of talents among the theatre’s creatives.
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The Buddies residency pro gram, which builds longer-term relationships with artists, is one of the only programs in Canada solely devoted to creating and developing original queer works for the stage. Buddies works with writers, theatre collectives, directors, performance artists, and choreographers to create mean ingful opportunities to explore new work and the creative process through a distinctly queer lens. Using an artist-centred ap proach, this program provides the time, space, and resources needed to develop projects that will often be presented at Buddies and beyond. This year’s residency artists include Bilal Baig, Heath V. Salazar, Pencil Kit Productions, and Julie Phan. This fall marks Buddies in Bad Times Theatre’s 44th season! As part of a presentation series in November, Buddies welcomes Montréal-based MauritianCanadian multi-disciplinary artist, educator, writer, and community-arts facilitator Kama La Mackerel, who is adapting their award-winning poetry collection, zom-fam, into an interdisciplinary solo stage performance.“InMauritian Kreol, zomfam means ‘man-woman’ or ‘transgender,’” the show description reads. “This intimate solo brings to the stage Kama La Mackerel’s award-winning eponymous poetry collection. Through dance, storytelling, spoken word, and ritual, the piece weaves together ancestral voices, femme tongues, broken colonial languages, and a tender queer subjectivity, all of which grapple with the legacy of plantation servitude.”
SUSTAINABLE FASHION THAT’S GOOD FOR THE PLANET AND YOUR WALLET! visit talize.com
Migration is a global and ongo ing challenge. Every year, Canada welcomes hundreds of thousands of migrants, building a collective mosaic of cultures nationwide. However, for migrants, the settle ment, adaptation and integration experiences oftentimes are not an easy process and can be difficult, not just with moving to a new country but with finding their place in a new country, commu nity, culture, and systems towards putting down their family roots to build a new life. It’s a long journey that in many instances comes with its own conflicts, primarily with so cial and legal systems that may be different. In principle, migrants are expected to integrate and yet the expectations around assimi lation can negatively impact the integration journey, and pose barriers for migrants who come from collectivist cultures.
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Every season at Buddies creates vital Canadian theatre, sharing stories, perspectives, and voices that are challenging, alternative, and diverse. Performances that celebrate and preserve these stories are part of what makes theatre magical. Find showtimes and tickets at buddiesinbadtimes.com
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The fashion industry is the second most polluting industry globally, contributing to ten per cent of carbon emissions around the world. Simply making a pair of jeans takes 1,800 gallons of water and produces approximately 33 kilograms of CO2. On top of that, each year, more than ten million tons of textile waste are generated in North America. At the same time, clothing is a daily essential and a great way to express your personal style. As sustainability becomes more important in our daily lives, it’s important to consider where the things we buy come from and find environmentally friendly alternatives to buying new. Shopping secondhand, for example, is naturally friendlier to the environment; you’re giv ing a second life to something that would otherwise be headed to the landfill and saving money at the same time. Thrift shop ping is a great way to introduce sustainability into your lifestyle and wardrobe, crafting a con scious wardrobe that reduces your carbon Canadian-ownedfootprint.and operat ed for-profit thrift retailer Talize fills the gap between tradition al thrift stores and mid-range discount retailers, providing a place to find unique, one-of-akind items at a cost your wallet willFindinglove. a unique piece of clothing that perfectly matches your style is one of the joys of thrift shopping. Experienced thrifters are all too familiar with scouring the aisles for hidden gems, but at Talize, where each item is carefully inspected for quality assurance prior to being put on the sales floor, every item is a treasure. Their product selection offers a wide range of secondhand items, including brand names and designer clothing for all ages, accessories, footwear, housewares, books, media, toys, and much more. What’s more, thrifting at Talize doesn’t feel like sorting through an endless array of textiles— their stores are brightly lit and colour coordinated, so you can find what you’re looking for withAsideease.from giving you more for your money, one of thrift ing’s most significant advan tages is keeping clothes out of landfills. Now more than ever, consumers recognize that by donating the clothes they’ve outgrown or no longer want, they are making a more positive impact than they would by toss ing their items in the garbage. Talize focuses on reusing, upcycling, and recycling gently used clothing and hard goods. When clothing doesn’t sell, they recycle it to keep their process es zero-waste and ensure that clothing does not end up in landfills. Donating gently-used items to thrift stores like Talize ensures that your clothing and items will continue to serve someone else even when you’re done with them. It’s an easy way to include textiles in your recycling practices and extends the lifespan of your purchases. Every item that can have its life extended is one less item that needs to be manufactured. Talize accepts donations at all of their stores through their donation centres and dropboxes from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Sunday. With every dona tion, you receive a $5 coupon for your next purchase of $25 or Withmore.ten locations in Ontario and two in British Columbia and new items donated every day, there’s never been a better time to start crafting your conscious closet.
A Culturally Meaningful Approach to Building Safe Communities
The Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support & Integration (MRCSSI), a London-based notfor-profit organization that helps families and individuals over come issues that impact their family safety and wellbeing, and serves the role of a cultural community liaison. MRCSSI provides culturally integrative services that build the capacity to help individuals, families, and communities to overcome challenges, manage conflict, and ensure their family’s safety andThewellbeing.primary source of the challenges many migrants from collectivist backgrounds face is the conflict between the collec tivist nature of their families and the individualistic model of services, support, and inter vention of mainstream services and policies. MRCSSI recogniz es that acknowledging the dif ference between individualistic systems and collectivist com munities will allow for better understanding for newcomers. In the case of danger, such as family violence, this can be what it takes to identify and respond to a problem before it escalates. Service providers may have difficulty supporting families ex periencing domestic challenges because of biases or the lack of culturally relevant understanding. Their services may focus on individual interventions and the approach may be paternalistic, such as rescuing women from their culture, communities, religion, or spirituality. This makes it difficult for newcomers to seek help, thus making them even more vulnerable. Another source of difficulty is the lack of understanding of a person’s pre-migration experi ences, including those impact ed by war trauma or those who have lost their socio-economic status. Not taking these factors into account limits the effective ness of the available services and support to immigrant and new comer communities. The culturally integrative framework of MRCSSI’s services helps create a space for equity seeking communities to be part of the solution. This Culturally Integrative Family Safety Response (CIFSR) model allows service providers to form effective and culturally informed responses to family violence within immigrant communities. Essentially, it creates a better social safety net by assisting mainstream services in understanding the challenges better and at the same time supports the immigrant community by helping them understand the system better and build their capacity to respond to their own needs. Each year, MRCSSI uses this model to provide a variety of direct counselling, family-based intervention, as well as public education workshops that impact hundreds of individuals, families, and the community at large. Although the MRCSSI’s work mainly focuses on Muslim and Middle Eastern communities, the culturally integrative approach MRCSSI uses can benefit other collectivist communities in Canada and worldwide. MRCSSI’s community-based and culturally integrative approach has resulted in the launching of a new initiative, called the Centre for Culturally Integrative Responses (CCIR), to share the learnings and the impact of almost a decade and a half of work with other communities across the country and the globe. Through this new initiative, the centre intends to conduct local, national and international research, help build capacity, provide consulting and training services and inform policy.
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Buddies in Bad Times Theatre: Queer Art Takes the Stage
The Award partners with orga nizations that serve young people ages 14 to 24, including schools, universities, Cadets, Girl Guides of Canada, Scouts Canada, youth groups, and more. “The Award has become the perfect extracurricular activity for youth who strive to become well-rounded individuals,” Mr. De-Wint said. “As young people work towards their goals, they experience growth in areas that include leadership, teamwork, dedication and passion.”
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• Community service —By giving service to others, young people develop a greater sense of self worth and builds their character • Physical recreation—Aims to improve health, team skills, self esteem, and confidence • Skill development Provides an opportunity for young people to improve an existing skill or try something new, which leads to a sense of achievement and well-being.
• Adventurous journey Encourages a sense of adventure and self-discovery while connecting with nature and builds self-confidence, health, fitness, teamwork and Youngleadership.peoplealso determine the pace at which they will fulfill their goals within the Award’s three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, with Gold Awards typically presented at ceremonies presided over by a province’s Lieutenant Governor. The only deadline: Young people have until their 25th birthday to complete the Award. Individuals are paired with an Award Leader from their Award Centre who helps nav igate the nature of their award and the activities they want to develop, set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realis tic, and Timebound) Goals, and track progress. Award Leaders act as mentors to motivate and empower participants to com plete the goals they’ve set and transform the next generation through life education beyond theBronzeclassroom.Achiever Misimi Sanni appreciates the impact the Award has had on her life. “It helps encourage me to make a difference in my community, pushes me to discover my pas sion for new activities and helps me learn how to work towards my goals over the long term.”
An additional Gold project of the Award is a unique expe rience that truly broadens the participants’ horizons by chal lenging them to work with oth ers towards achieving a shared common goal. The Award in Canada gen erates $3.50 in social value for every dollar invested in the program, which significantly impacts corporate social and environmental responsibility.
For 60 years, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award experiential learning framework has been transforming the lives of young people in Canada. Open to all backgrounds, cultures and abilities, the Award partners with youth organizations to empower the young people they work with, to raise their aspirations, and help them discover their infinite potential.
Inspired by his childhood experiences learning from re nowned German educator Kurt Hahn’s teaching methods, the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh did just that. In 1956, he formed The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a charity that now in spires young people in 130 countries to discover their pas sion, purpose and place in the world through non-formal edu cation and involves one million participants globally.
In Canada, more than 500,000 have taken part since the Award was launched in this country in “The1963.Award means a lot to Canada, and Canadians have embraced the opportunities it presents,” said Stephen De-Wint, National Executive Director of the Award in Canada. “This program helps young Canadians build the skills and confidence to face the challenges of this modern world, preparing them for life beyond the classroom.”
“One of the best and most rewarding sensations this Award has given me is the utter happiness and sheer sense of joy I feel after spending a small portion of my day to effect change and improve someone else’s life,” said Roma MacDonald, a Silver Achiever. Gold Achiever Carmen Darichuk described how her involvement in the program has helped her learn how to succeed in the face of the challenges and delays that naturally occur when you pursue a goal. “The plan does not always work, and time does not stop, but choosing positivity and strength will ensure that everything ends where it is supposed to.”
“The impact made by investing in youth is beyond measurable. We are so proud of our partici pants who choose to serve their community and build skills while overcoming challenges along the way,” Mr. De-Wint explained. A key goal is to make the Award even more accessible to young people across Canada. To do so, the Canadian Award team is actively seeking to expand its network of Award Centres and Award Leaders and welcomes the interest of school administrators, community groups and companies that have an interest in youth advancement. To learn more about how the Award Framework can support the young people in your community, we invite you to learn why investing in youth is a critical investment and how we can partner with the Award to build a stronger Canada where all young people can develop their infinite potential.
The Award is a personal self-development program that is accessible and adaptive to all participants; it is open to young people ages 14 to 24 of all abil ities and backgrounds. The pro gram is non-competitive, with youth setting their own goals in four areas:
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FOUNDATIONS FOR RESISTANCE A self-described rebel, Bhattacharya is a groundbreaking dancer, choreographer, and cultural leader who has been redefining the dance scene in Toronto for over 20 years. Her unique style effortlessly incorporates her many influences, including folk dance, rock ’n roll, and Bharatnatyam, a codified Indian dance form. Rebellion and feminism are frequent themes in her work. For Bhattacharya, it’s all about constant acts of resistance against the injustice she sees in the world and her own experiences. As a dancer who began working when very few people who looked like her commanded centre stage, she’s faced exotification, stereotyping, and criticism that her work is either not Indian enough or too Indian. “It used to affect me a lot, and it would really trigger some direct responses,” Bhattacharya said. “This one reviewer commented on my use of hand gestures being ‘stereotypical’ in Indian dance, and so the next piece I did, I did in bondage gloves so you couldn’t see my hands.”
Miles Nadal JCC: 750 Spadina Ave, Toronto Tickets available at: marine.wildlandsleague.org 7-9 p.m. September 22 FEATURING INDIGENOUS LEADERS AND WILDLANDS LEAGUE EXPEDITION TEAM WITH SPECIAL GUESTS Sam Hunter on living with polar bears Award-winning Indigenous musicians Lawrence Martin and Vern Cheechoo The Water Brothers on their compelling imagery © IMAGES COURTESY OF THE WATER BROTHERS AND WILDLANDS LEAGUE UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF THE WORLD’S INLANDLARGESTSEA WILDLANDS LEAGUE PRESENTS The power of positive, solution-based journalism. globalheroes.com ADVERTORIAL September • 2022
DANCING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC Premiering this month at TO Live, Svāhā! has been profoundly shaped by the last two years. Bhattacharya describes the show as an offering of dance, music, and joy inspired by women and the act of gather ing. The work is performed by 22 dancers trained in 29 dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, contem porary, Latin, hip hop, jazz, ballet, tap, and Limón. “It’s really exciting to finally be working towards putting the show on stage and imagining people coming into theatres and having this live experience again… it’s a testament to the power of dance, music, and ritual to endure the challenges of our times,” Bhattacharya said. While challenging, navigating the production of a live dance work during the pandemic also brought out some positive experiences. One step Nova Dance took was putting artists on the payroll to provide economic stability. Bhattacharya also said there was more flexibility for dancers dealing with pregnancy, injuries, and motherhood to participate and for everyone to extend more compassion towards each other. “If you were having a pandemic breakdown and couldn’t be there, that was accepted,” she shared. “But it turned out that everyone wanted to keep coming because dancing together, even virtual ly, helped us stay connected. It helped us care for each other.” algonquinpark.on.ca
Youth have a lot to worry about these days, and in a complex, rapidly transforming world, Let’s Talk Science is working relentlessly to make sure youth are well-positioned for future ca reers and roles as citizens. Let’s Talk Science, a national charity, is focused on expanding and di versifying participation in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This has become more important than ever, as STEM underpins most complex global challenges, like the pandemic, climate change, clean drinking water, and energy sustainability. With nearly 30 years of experi ence, Let’s Talk Science has estab lished itself as a trusted national education partner by providing high-quality learning experiences and resources that engage youth, educators and parents/caregiv ers in STEM—in English and French, in-person and online, for schools, early years centres, community organizations and families in all regions of Canada. Let’s Talk Science programming includes citizen-science action projects and resources focused on timely topics including sustainability and climate change. Programming is provided at no cost and is grounded in lead ing-edge knowledge and research thanks to unique collaborations with academic and community partners, governments, industry, private donors, and volunteers. Our world is rapidly chang ing and STEM skills are in high demand in multiple disciplines. To drive the innovation needed to thrive, Canada needs creative people with deep technical skills as well as non-technical people who are enthusiastic and confi dent working in innovative sci ence-based environments. With its foundation in inqui ry-based learning and problem solving, STEM education provides youth with the skills they need to grow into our future job and wealth creators and prepares them to tackle the most pressing issues facing our planet. STEM learning develops characteristics and skills that enable us to take risks; find innovative solutions to real-world problems; think critically; commu nicate effectively; and collaborate. These skills are essential to success no matter what you do!
STEM education.
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Donations to Let’s Talk Science ensure cost is not a barrier for the 6.5 million children from coast-tocoast-to-coast. We must support, encourage, and develop meaningful learning opportunities that unleash and develop creative genius and crit ical thinking skills. We must con tinue to invest in STEM education both in schools and at home, as it will pay dividends for generations. Building scientific literacy and the competencies that come with STEM education will help us arrive at a pros perous, sustainable future. Let’s be bold, invest in education through Let’s Talk Science, and ensure that all youth are prepared to thrive.
INVESTMENTS IN STEM EDUCATION WILL PAY DIVIDENDS FOR GENERATIONS Engaging youth in accessible, diverse and inclusive STEM education will help them to develop the skills need ed to explore solutions and navigate the challenges of rapid change and disruptive technologies. Making STEM relevant and accessible also helps to build inclusion and a sense of belonging for equity-deserving audiences that have historically been excluded from STEM fields.
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Another way she’s fighting the status quo is by creating her own dance company in 2008. For over a decade, Nova Dance has been dedicated to working with artists from diverse dance forms, cultural backgrounds, body sizes, and ages. “There’s been a lot of dance on stage that’s monochromatic, but I’m not looking to replace one dominant body with another dominant body,” Bhattacharya explained. “It’s about the diversi ty, the differences, and how they come together.”
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“Dance Says What Words Cannot:” Nova Bhattacharya on Finding Joy, Connection, and Rebellion Through Movement
Thanks to donors, Let’s Talk Science provides free STEM hands-on programs, resources and tools to help understand climateLearnscience.More letstalkscience.ca
For people passionate about Algonquin Park Join The Friends of Algonquin Park in its efforts to inspire and educate generations to come. Canada’s Bay and James Bay)
inland sea (Hudson
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VANESSA GRANT When award-winning artist Nova Bhattacharya began creating her latest dance work, Svāhā!, in 2018, she had no idea a global pandemic would keep her from performing it live for over four years. But the extra time has been transformative, causing Bhattacharya to rethink what dance means to her while infusing the piece with new meaning. “I think the most import ant thing about dance is how grounding it is, how it can re connect us after all the isolation and distancing,” she explained. “When we dance with someone, our heartbeats sync up and bring us into a shared experience, re minding us that we’re together.”
“I FOUND MYSELF, THANKS TO THE PROJECT,” SAYS DEYRA, 26, WHO GAINED THE BUSINESS SKILLS SHE NEEDED THROUGH EMPUJE, CHILDREN BELIEVE’S YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROJECT.
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For more information about EMPUJE and Children Believe’s global work empowering young dreamers to access education, overcome barriers and be a voice for change, visit www.childrenbelieve.ca.
EMPUJEoffered.willalso soon launch Krezco (“I grow” in Spanish), an online platform set up for project participants where they can access exclusive employment opportuni ties with companies that support gender equality and inclusive pol icies for “Privateyouth.companies want to be strategic partners for youth trained through EMPUJE, as these young people will be the next leaders, the next managers,” says Ulises Tapia, the manager of a popular restau rant that offers opportunities for EMPUJE participants. “We want to help them to gain experience in the labour market and better under stand gender-inclusive policies. This kind of program prepares youth to build a better Nicaragua.”
Deyra navigated her family tour boat business to success with training from a Canadian-funded employment project benefiting 12,000 youth.
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As part of the project, Children Believe created an online platform where participants can take free training from anywhere their com puters or mobile phones have an internet connection. Leadership, assertive communication, time management and stress man agement are among the valuable topics covered in the 13 training modules
Deyra is convinced that she now has the skills needed to grow her family’s small business. She plans to improve the boat garage, expand the tour operation and promote the business internationally.
CONSIDERED MEN’S WORK BY MANY IN NICARAGUA, DEYRA SAYS SHE IS BREAKING GENDER STEREOTYPES AND ENJOYS HER JOB, CAPTAINING HER FAMILY’S TOURIST BOAT. ALL IMAGES © JUAN DAVID GRANDA ARANDA
“I found myself, thanks to the project,” says Deyra, who is now 26. “I learned that women can do any job. It definitely changed my per spective, and I started to enjoy my job at my family’s business. Now, I’m breaking gender stereotypes through the work I do.”
Deyra was a promising industrial engineering university student in Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, when her scholarship funding abruptly ended in 2019. Unable to continue her courses, Deyra shifted her focus to her family’s boat tour business in Granada—one of the country’s biggest tourist destinations—on the shores of Lake Nicaragua. “I learned to drive boats, and guide tourists around the lake and the islets. That’s how I was earning an income to support my family and save for school,” says Deyra. “It was a challenge for me because, in my culture, this is considered men’s work. I knew I needed to make money but I was ashamed of my Thejob.”business was struggling in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic devastated tourism in Nicaragua. The number of foreign visitors dropped by more than 67 per cent, and tourism income fell by $315 million (61 per cent) be tween 2019 and 2020, according to a Central Bank of Nicaragua report. With fewer tourists visiting the lake, Deyra knew she couldn’t save enough to go back to university any time soon. She had to find a way to improve her employment situation, but she faced difficulties. Youth in Nicaragua are affected by numerous barriers to employment, including skills deficits, a lack of knowledge, expertise and information about job opportunities, as well as dis crimination based on social status, ethnicity and Fortunately,gender.Deyra learned about Children Believe’s inno vative youth employment proj ect called EMPUJE, (“push” in Spanish.) Today, she is one of the 12,000 Nicaraguans aged 15 to 30 (including 7,200 women) who are being trained and prepared to find jobs and develop small busi nesses. As a result of the project, participants have established or expanded 115 small businesses in the last two years, including chicken farms, esthetician ser vices, traditional fast food outlets and tourism services, like Deyra’s family boat tour company. A five-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada, EMPUJE leverages local training, technol ogy and trades. The project pro vides youth with business and life skills training, as well as technical vocational training, and it is im plemented by Children Believe in collaboration with the Nicaraguan National Institute for Vocational Education, and other local part ners. The tailored activities enable project participants to grow and thrive in their own communities, break gender stereotypes, create networks and connect with oppor tunities offered by local corpora tions and businesses.
“The biggest impact the project had on my life has been getting to know myself and my abilities,” says Deyra. “My parents are proud of me because they know that I don’t give up despite challenges. My story is an example for other young women that there are no gender limitations when you want to do a job.”
Across Europe, more than 700,000 people are homeless—a number that has increased by 70 per cent in the last ten years. In 2020, the European Parliament pledged to end homelessness in Europe by 2030, but throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, homelessness numbers in the majority of Europe grew— except in Finland. With the support of a local initiative called Housing First, Finland has decreased its homeless population from around 20,000 in the 1980s to approximately 3,950 today. What they are doing differently is a shift in mindset—by simply putting housing first, the country has been able to drastically reduce the number of people sleeping on the streets. The program, established by the Finland government, operates on the idea that having a place to live is both a human right and a basic right. People facing homelessness in Finland are given permanent housing, ranging from a self-con tained apartment to a housing block. Similarly, they receive individually tailored support services. Depending on their in come, they can contribute to the cost of the support services they receive, and the rest is covered by the local government. Since the program started in 2007, they have helped to take thousands of people off the streets and provide them with supportive housing—including a 58-year-old male who lost his home due to substance abuse.
VÄINÖLÄ © COURTESY OF HOUSING FIRST
ALLIE MURRAY
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Imagine, if you will, waking up every day for over 30 years with the knowledge that before you think about your personal needs, you must address the needs of two other individuals. Irene Bodanis has three beautiful sons, two of them with autism. From the onset, Irene has cared for her two sons, Jake and Jonathan, seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year, demanding her full attention and commitment, never taking a day off. Immediately upon their diagnosis, she made it her life’s mission to ensure her son’s lives were made as typical as possible—without giving a second thought to all the sacrifices she was going to have to make along the way. Selfless dedication to her sons for almost three decades directly speaks to Irene’s char acter. But really, it’s only a chapter of her story. In 2004, she co-founded Jake’s House along with her husband, David. With a genuine understanding of the impact autism has on a family, Irene set out to better prepare others for the challenges that she herself has faced in raising her family. It is this selflessness that makes Irene so special. With everything that Irene does, she brings her experience, her wisdom and her unrelenting enthusiasm to the thousands of parents who’ve now benefited from her commitment. Irene has inspired others through her lived experience, helping to evolve our Annual Community Events, the Legends Mentoring program, the Employment Mentoring Program and most recently, Jake’s House Community Residences. Always striving to make a meaningful contribution, Irene continues to lead by example through her lifetime dedica tion to her own children and many others. Creating a fami ly beyond and inclusive of her own children, Irene lives by the simple motto of “spend 10 per cent of your time on identifying the problem and 90 per cent of your time finding the solution.” She has uniquely inspired the continuum of services that the charity now provides to the au tism community.
Irene has an elegance in her simplicity of welcoming those she understands well into the Jake’s House community.
Creating a Network of Emergency and Mental Health Support
After signing up, members get access to learning forums and webinars, newsletters, and the volunteer recognition program Spirit of Volunteerism, which shows appreciation to those who selflessly give of themselves to help their communities. As well, members receive access to the DCO website and membership portal for up-to-date information and resource sharing, providing the opportunity for ongoing learning. DCO has membership locations across the province, ensuring that the services of distress centres are well received by those in need, regardless of the area or crisis. At member distress centres, a variety of realtime support services are offered, including helplines, a pride line, online and text crisis services, suicide survivor support, and more. DCO works to create opportunities for connectedness and collaboration within its network of distress centres, with a focus on accountability, collaboration and empowerment, inclusion, integrity, and leadership. Each member has the power to make an incredible difference in the lives of others. In times of crisis, Ontarians can trust that they have some one who will listen, and that access makes all the difference. DCO fosters an environment of collaboration and networking while providing universal access to support for individuals in dis tress and crisis.
“I lost my own apartment in 2010 because of alcohol,” the anonymous male shared in Housing First’s book A Home of Your Own. “I initially spent a month in hospital because of health problems. From there, I was directed to a supported housing unit meant for substance abuse rehabilitation for six months. After that I lived in a unit with social services meant for the long-term homeless for four and a half years.” Now five years sober and living in his own apartment in Väinölä, he shared that he finally feels at home. To continue reducing their homeless population, the Finland government has launched and funded projects and the construction of new, affordable housing. The Y-Foundation, a local organization that provides affordable rental housing, rents them out to people experiencing homelessness or living on a low income. The Y-Foundation offers two types of homes—the Y-Kodit ( kodit meaning home in Finnish) and the M2-Kodit. The Y-Kodit apartments are offered to those with a homeless background or those who have become displaced from the rental housing market. There are also apartments available in Y-Kodit for specific target groups like people under 35 or seniors. The M2-Kodit is owned by the Y-Foundation and rents apartments to those who are looking for a home. The tenant selection is based on social relevance and financial need. The Y-Foundation is operating on a mission to ensure that everyone in Finland has a home. The organization is working with partners in Finland to eradicate homelessness in the county by 2027—and the City of Helsinki has an even more ambitious goal, working towards ending homelessness by 2025.
Housing First: How Finland is Eradicating Homelessness
Our Time to Shine Designed to develop a strong community and support Canadians living with autism. jakeshouse.ca/donate
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Irene Bodanis, Co-Founder of Jake’s House
Every year, hundreds of thou sands of Ontarians reach out to distress centres across the province, seeking guidance, emergency services, or simply a listening ear. These programs make a significant impact in Ontario’s communities and can be lifesaving for those who reachDistressout. centres offer instant support and a variety of services to their communities. The Distress and Crisis Ontario (DCO) is building a community that strengthens this impact so more people can reach out to distress and crisis line services when they need them.
IRENE BODANIS, CO-FOUNDER OF JAKE’S HOUSE AT EVENT © COURTESY OF JAKE’S HOUSE
“In everything we do, we aim to provide advocacy for our members and the distress/crisis sector, training opportunities for volunteers and leadership, and to foster networking among mem ber centres to allow for partner ships and growth among the sector,” the website reads.
In support of advocacy, net working, and training for many Distress centres across Ontario, DCO provides resources, bene fits, and information for distress centres through their member shipTheprogram.goalofDCO is to increase the capacity of community-based organizations offering distress and crisis line services by sup porting distress centres across Ontario, allowing responders to provide services to those who are feeling lonely, depressed, strug gling with suicidal ideations, or are otherwise in need of support. The membership is curated for organizations that provide telephone, chat, and text-based distress guidance to those in their communities, as well as for multi-service organizations with specialized telephone, chat, text, and web-based support for their communities and at-risk populations.
Irene’s magical gift was teach ing the rest of the world how to see things in the same manner that she does, “They are simply our children and without excep tion, everyone wants to live in a loving home and to be part of a Onfamily.”behalf of families every where, thank you, Irene, for building a loving home for us all.
Find more information and become a member at dcontario.org
“Our first and most important goal—is to show families we understand their children and that we care about them and that they will always be welcomed at our events, as they are.” There are no exceptions—no one will be left behind because they are different. In the almost 20 years since its inception, Jake’s House has grown immensely, supporting thousands of families with the help of thousands of volunteers. Irene figured it out very early on, “As parents, we all want the very best for our children. We don’t worry about what they can’t do, but instead we focus on what they can achieve.”
© PEXELS/INZMAM KHAN YOU NEED TO TALK? OUR MEMBER CENTRES ARE HERE TO LISTEN TO YOU... DCONTARIO.ORG
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Schools are an essential part of a community that rely on the work of hundreds of unsung heroes. But did you know that the average Education Worker makes approximately $39,000 annually, and some make as little as $5,000 annually?
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JEFF FUCHS © ANDREW GREGG © JULIE ROGERS
Aloha ‘Aina at Hawaii’s Akahiao Nature Institute RAYE MOCIOIU Award-winning Canadian explorer Jeff Fuchs was made for adventure. His father inspired him to be inquisitive, always searching for the stories and histories behind everything that crossed his path. A natural nomad, his grandmother encouraged his adventurous nature, teaching him that getting lost did not have to be bad—it could also be a way to learn. Fuchs discovered that when you live on the road, you must quickly find out what you need to survive—from equipment to health necessities. He quickly learned that his most important tool was his willingness to blend in and adapt to new settings, environments, and cultures, all of which require openmindedness, intention, and a thirst for knowledge. His love for people drives his adventurous spirit, honouring those who share their wisdom and experiences with him. In all of his expeditions, Fuchs holds that the art of listening is an essential skill; the great stories of life are found through listening. Wherever his travels take him, he keeps a simple mandate in mind: to always give more than he takes and to never take more than he needs. These simple mottos led him to co-create the Akahiao Nature Institute, a joint venture with his wife and fellow adventurer, Julie. Through Akahiao, the two seek to impart a love of nature and sustainability to the next generation of youth through immersive outdoor experiences, farm-to-table eating, and establishing values that put the earth first. Akahiao, located in Huehue Ranch on the Western slope of Hualalai on the Big Island of Hawaii, connects the past, present, and future through the beauty of nature. As one of the oldest ranches in Hawaii, established in 1886, the space holds history within its branches and fields. At the same time, the ranch has been reimaged as a lush, biodynamic sanctuary for people and nature to live as one and form connections that cannot be formed anywhere else. The Institute seeks to impart a simple yet powerful philosophy to all who visit: Aloha ‘Aina, to love and care for the land; ‘Ai Pono, to enjoy the bounty of food from nature; Pilina, to stick together and develop authentic bonds; and No na mamo, to do it all for the love and wellbeing of our children, the future generation. Through Akahiao’s immersive programs, guests will rediscover their connection to nature by living off—and with—the land, integrating unique learning experiences with meditation practices, regenerative cooking and crafting techniques, and outdoor activities that foster leadership, laughter, and restoration. In every program, the team incorporates “tea time,” inspired by Fuch’s years living in Asia, where groups come together to share and enjoy the sacred practice of “taking time to takeHere,time.”the wisdom of the past and the creativity of the future come together, offering a chance for innovation and purpose. With every program hosted at Akahiao, the vision is to create a world where life, learning, and a sense of meaning combine and follow each visitor throughout the rest of their lives. We are all stewards of the land, and to care for the world around us is to celebrate it. As Fuchs says, “If we don’t engage youth, how then can we expect them to care?”
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Toronto Education Workers/Local 4400 believes in well-funded community-based education and resources for ALL ages. Education should be a right—not a fight! Stand with the Toronto Education Workers/Local 4400, and the next time you see an Education Worker, thank them!
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Healing Our Wounds, Healing Our Families
woundscanada.ca to learn more. WOUNDS CANADA IS THE VOICE FOR CANADIAN PEOPLE AT RISK OF OR LIVING WITH WOUNDS AND THEIR PROVIDERS WOUNDSCANADA.CA
Education Workers!
Wounds are a common health problem that can impact every one. Some wounds heal well on their own, while others can take a long time or even stop healing. Even minor wounds can become serious for certain people, leading to infection, disability, and death. Wounds come in many forms. They may be caused by trauma, as in cuts, scrapes, punctures, and burns, or be the result of illness or some type of deficiency, such as poor nutrition, a lack of feel ing in one or more areas of the body, or the inability to move. Conditions such as diabetes and poor blood flow can result in mi nor wounds that become major problems, particularly on the feet and legs. And we have all heard the stories about terrible pressure injuries (also known as bedsores) in vulnerable people in long-term careSevere,homes.complicated, or slowhealing wounds have a significant impact on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. For individuals, some wounds may result in a significantly altered lifestyle, with loss of function, employment, and a normal social life. Families are impacted, too, with some family members becoming full-time caregivers. Already overburdened health systems need to use more finan cial, human, and other resources in hospitals, rehab centres, and home care to treat slow-healing and complicated wounds. With an aging population and increases in the numbers of Canadians who have conditions that increase their risk for complicated wounds, the problem is growing. WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT? At Wounds Canada, our mission is to ensure that every Canadian has access to the resources they need to help prevent and manage wounds. For more than 25 years, Wounds Canada, a charitable organization dedicated to the advancement of wound prevention and care in Canada, has become the country’s leading provider of reliable woundrelated resources. We produce patient-friendly resources that families can use to protect their loved ones from getting the most common types of wounds and for managing them at home or with the assistance of a qualified healthcare professional. Our clinic directory lists facilities across the country that specialize in wounds. To access this free information, check out the patient and caregiver section of our website at •••Canadatopatient-or-caregiver.www.woundscanada.ca/Someofourotherinitiativesaddresswoundcareininclude:Awarenesscampaigns,oftenfocusingonthechallengesofwoundpatientsFinancialsupportforresearchandscholarshipprogramsEducationforhealthcareprovidersonbestpracticesforpreventingandmanagingwoundsAdvisinggovernmentsandlobbyingthemtoprioritizewoundsWefocusonmanytypesofwounds,includingpressureinjuries,surgicalwounds,diabeticfootulcers,burns,traumaticwounds,andlower-legulcers.Pleasevisitourwebsiteat
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Toronto Education Workers/ Local 4400 was formed to improve the social and economic welfare of its Members, and in compliance with the Human Rights Code, race, or creed, colour, sexual orientation, without regard to gender, to promote efficiency in public employment and to manifest its belief in the value of the unity of organizedTorontolabour.Education Workers/ Local 4400 is made up of approximately 17,000 Education Workers who work within the Toronto District School Board; Bloorview School Authority, Childcare Workers from Not Your Average, Maurice Cody, McMurrich Sprouts, and Toronto Catholic District School Board Childcare Centres, Caretakers from the Toronto Catholic District School Board and Viamonde French Board and Jewish Immigrant Aid Services (JIAS). Representing over 400 Job Classifications in over 1,000 Worksites, our Members are entrusted with the safety, responsibility, and assistance of delivering quality education to the students attending all the schools at our sites. Education Workers are the front-line employees at their worksites. Our members’ com mitment, caring, compassion, and dedication go above the job description for their positions.
Lunchroom Supervisors, Designated Early Childhood Educators (DECE), Outdoor Educators, Caretakers, Educa tional Assistants and School Office staff help ensure the safe ty and learning environment of the students—your children and grandchildren! Educational Assistants help make school a safe and enriching environment for students with special needs and specific learning preferenc es. As well, activities initiated by the DECE help children develop and learn intellectually, physi cally, and emotionally, setting our youngest learners up for futureWithsuccess.thecuts being made to education, our city risks losing the programs and resources that contribute to a quality education—and the heroes who make those programs possible! Already, many programs have taken a hit, like communities,andtoEducationonceonlineenhancedandclasses,Language/AfricanInternationalHeritagekindergartenprograms,adultlearningprograms.AsanotherwaveoftheCOVID-19pandemiclooms,cleaningmeasuresandlearningprogramswillagainrelyontheworkofWorkers,andweneedbereadytostandwiththemsupporttheirwork—forourourchildren,and so quality education can prevail. For the last ten years, Education Workers have given the best, and they deserve to have the best given back to them!
Bees, Birds, and Butterflies need your help. Pollinator Partnership Canada works to support their habitat, creating a better world for pollinators, people, and the planet. Visit pollinatorpartnership.ca. Donate and make a difference today.
Food prices have jumped by up to 160 per cent in parts of Somalia, due to the drought and global supply disruptions from the conflict in Ukraine. Even in good times, Somalia imports over half its food. The government has become alarmed by what it says is the slow international aid response, with its special drought envoy Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame saying countries need “to pay attention to this drought before it becomes a famine.” To date, Somalia has received just 18 per cent of the $1.46 billion it needs in humanitarian aid this year, according to UN figures—well below the level of response last year. Ukraine, by contrast, has received 71 per cent of its requested $2.25 billion for six months.
In a world of health-conscious parents, Love Child Organics was born with the hope that all children could have access to truly honest, pure and delicious organic food. A values-first company, Love Child aspires to make that hope a reality, creating delicious, healthy, and high-quality organic baby and children’s food products.
“Love Child sources much of its fruit, including apples, from Harker’s Organics Farm in B.C., Canada.”
2 Take action by making cli mate-conscious consum er choices. Buying locally sourced food reduces your carbon impact. Buy produce and certified sustainable prod ucts for pollinators, like Bee Friendly Farmed products.
“As a parent, you deserve full transparency and trust in the food you feed to your little one.”
3 Please donate to support our researchers, conservation biologists, and educators so that they can help fill in the blanks, develop the tools we need, and engage youth—the more we know, the more we can help the pollinators!
—Calvin Seguin, Brand Manager
When It Comes to Baby Food, Honesty Is the Only Policy
That’s why Love Child Organics is humbled to be a recipient of the Clean Label Purity Award. The Clean Label Project is a third-party consumer advocacy organization that tests products for over 400 contaminants, in cluding heavy metals, pesticides, and plasticizers. Clean Label has tested over 471 leading baby food products in North America —and Love Child ranks in the topThequadrant.CleanLabel Project Purity Award evaluates products for substances that would never be found on a product label but have the long-term potential to adversely affect health and wellbeing. This allows brands to see how their ingredient supply chain and quality assurance systems fare compared to industry leaders. It also enables parents and consumers to see what exactly is in their food, beverages, cleaning supplies, and more. Most organic purees have a clean ingredients list, but this award further proves that Love Child has your children’s health and safety in mind. Love Child Organics is started by parents from homemade recipes, is com mitted to sourcing the best in gredients for every child—and doing so “Home-grown”transparently.isone of Love Child’s core values and a driving force behind their sourcing procedures. Every product is created with health in mind, sourced from organic, family farms and vetted for top safety and quality standards so that parents only get the best ingredients in food and products for their children.
CLIMBING COSTS
It can be hard to get kids to eat their veggies, but Love Child Organics makes it easy! Their line of purees, snacks, and ce reals offer easy introductions to solid foods and are made without added salt, sugar, or fat. Aller gy-friendly to boot, all of their purees are free from gluten, soy, eggs, sesame, and nuts. Every Love Child Organics product is filled with honest ingredients that you and your family can trust.
RELATIVE SAFETY The Kabasa Primary School was established to cope with the influx of families ravaged by the 2011 famine. Admissions swelled again during the 2016-17 drought, when early humanitarian intervention kept the death rate low. About one fifth of students typically leave school during hard times and never return, said Rania Degesh, deputy director of East and southern Africa for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The meal program entices them to stay in school. Schools in Somalia get 41 U.S. cents per child for two meals a day, said the UN’s World Food Programme. Outside, Bashir scrambled among the last students to receive their meals, emerging triumphantly from the scrum with a metal plate of bean and cornHismash.grin was wide and his head held high. At last, he would eat. (Source: Reuters)
BASHIR NUR SALAT POSES FOR A PHOTOGRAPH WITH HIS CLASSMATES AT THE KABASA PRIMARY SCHOOL IN DOLLOW © REUTERS/FEISAL OMAR
Between 75 per cent and 95 per cent of all flowering plants on the earth need help with polli nation—they need pollinators. Birds, bats, bees, butterflies, bee tles, and other small mammals that pollinate plants are respon sible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food. They also sustain our ecosystems and produce our natural resources by helping plants reproduce. If we want to talk dollars and cents, pollinators add $217 billion to the global economy. In addition to the food that we eat, pollina tors support healthy ecosystems that clean the air, stabilize soils, protect from severe weather, and support other wildlife. Life is the way we know it because of pollinators. Without the ac tions of pollinators, agricultur al economies, our food supply, and surrounding landscapes wouldUnfortunately,collapse. pollinator populations are changing. Many pollinator populations are in decline, and this decline is attributed most severely to a loss in feeding and nesting habitats, and this is made worse by the realities of climate change. On top of this, pollution, the misuse of chemicals, disease, and invasive species are all contributing to shrinking and shifting pollinator populations. This nearly invisible ecosystem service is a precious resource that is increasingly in jeopardy and requires attention andPollinatorssupport. need help, and we know how to help them! If everyone—consumers, home owners, local governments, na tional governments, and private industry—makes an effort, we can change the future for polli nators and secure our own.
HERE ARE THREE SIMPLE ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE TO HELP THE TINY CREATURES THAT HELP US: 1 Plant for pollinators, no matter where you are. Plant for pollinators in your home garden, in your window box planter, or on your balcony. If you plant it, they will come. Adding natural habitat areas into farm systems also helps farmers, as more pollinators will bring more yield to the table. Plant all the good plants. Make local native plants your first choice, and add wonderful garden plants like lavender, sage, and sunflowers. Pollinator Partnership Canada has an Ecoregional Planting Guide, tailored to specific areas of Canada, that can help you select the right plant for the right spot—all you need is your postal code!
A Somali Boy’s Mission to Find Food as Climate Change Takes Its Toll Each morning in this Somali border town, 11-year-old Bashir Nur Salat plots his day’s mission behind a crooked wire fence. Armed with only a friend’s yellow school shirt, a borrowed book and toothy grin, he eyes his prize through the mesh: lunch. Bashir lives where three crises converge—global warming, spiralling food prices, and war. He, like millions of others in Somalia, are in the crosshairs of what some aid workers are calling “The Three Cs”: climate change, costs and conflict. The worst drought in four decades in war-torn Somalia forced his family to leave their farm three months ago and to move about 100 kilometres north to the town of Dollow, on the border with Ethiopia. Now, he leads a pack of younger children who gather when the Kabasa Primary School serves its students food. Through the school’s wire fence, the children stare at students inside gulping warm porridge or plates of beans and corn served as part of a UN-supported program, one of the few regular sources of food in the town. Many of the gang were among the latest influx of people into Dollow, who were too late to register for schooling. One by one, they slink through the broken gate and dart across the dusty schoolyard to grab a meal when the teachers aren’t looking. “When I don’t get food, I’m so hungry: I lie down and I can’t sleep,” Bashir said quietly. He had eaten no dinner the night before nor breakfast that morning. His eight brothers and sisters at home were all hungry, he said. At least 448 children have died since January while being treated for acute malnutrition, the United Nations said. The figures are likely a fraction of the true deaths since many will have been unable to reach help.
lovechildorganics.comcertification
—Brittany Compton, President of Love Child and mother of two
BUT DON’T STOP THERE! Spread the word about the importance of pollinators. Don’t keep it a secret; tell your friends and family how important pollinators are and what we are at risk of losing without them. To find out more, visit pollinatorpartnership.ca.
© COURTESY OF LOVE CHILD ORGANICS Proud recipient of the Clean Label Award
Pollinators Are Vital, But They Are in Trouble
BUMBLE BEE ON COSMOS © ANTHONY COLANGELO © PEXELS/SARAH CHAI FOOD HEROES & FEEL GOOD RECIPES ADVERTORIALADVERTORIAL globalheroes.com September • 2022
Kate Delmar-Morgan, head of clinics and a registered nutritional therapy practitioner from the Institute for Optimum Nutrition, has offered up her top tips for eating well when on holiday.
AVOID EATING AND DRIVING
DON’T DRINK AND FLY
Since the very beginning, Zywiec beer has been brewed in only one place: the Archduke's Brewery in Zywiec. When it comes to beer, we are uncompromising; this is why Zywiec is brewed exclusively from three ingredients: malted barley, hops, and pure mountain water. Zywiec beer is available at LCBO, The Beer Store and selected supermarkets.
Alberto Wareham, President and CEO of Icewater Seafoods in Arnold’s Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador, is the seventh generation of his family to own the cod business in the area. His son, Ryan Wareham, is the eighth. Long-term planning— including sustainability—is at the core of their business, to ensure generations well into the future can continue to support themselves and their community with responsible seafood from Canada’s pristine Atlantic Ocean. “As a long-time family-owned business, we’re invested in mak ing our company as sustainable as possible for the long term,” Wareham said. “We follow the science to make sure we’re pro tecting the resource for genera tions to Alberto’scome.”late father, Bruce Wareham, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for contributing to the survival of his hometown and the posi tive reputation of Newfoundland and Labrador seafood around the world. Icewater Seafood invests heavily in its future—including $14 million to improve its pro cessing plant and wages that are well above industry average—and is rewarded with employee loy alty. Icewater has 16 employees who have been with the company for over 40 years. On Canada’s Eastern Arctic coast, Qikiqtaaluk Corporation (QC) is doing much the same. They’re an Inuit birthright organization using Indigenous fishing and sustainability knowledge to create value from their waters and reinvest in theirBasedcommunities.inIqaluit, Nunavut, QC is one of the largest contrib utors to economic growth for the communities it represents. They’ve facilitated the develop ment of a $62 million hospital and built a new $80 million ho tel and conference center that can seat 600 in Nunavut’s cap ital to increase accessible travel for the Beyondregion.that, QC reinvests in developing a more modern, sustainable, and accessible fishing industry in Nunavut that provides more jobs and resources for Inuit. In 2020 they built a new research vessel to improve fisheries science in the Qikiqtani Region of the Nunavut settlement area and are investing in a large, multispecies factory freezer vessel to maximize the benefits of its fishery to Nunavummiut. Even further, there is a deep-sea port under construction in Iqaluit and another port planned for Qikiqtarjuaq to help service Nunavut’s offshore fishery so that Northern products can be landed in Nunavut and transshipped to markets rather than offloading in either Greenland or Newfoundland and Labrador. “QC prides itself on build ing up our region,” said Harry Flaherty, President and CEO of QC. “By caring for the resource in our ocean, we can create a fu ture for Nunavut that is brighter than we have today.” These stories are not unique. Fishing is one of Canada’s oldest livelihoods and has been a cornerstone of rural, coastal, and Indigenous communities for over 200 years. Many Canadian seafood companies are family or community-oriented and are committed to fishing for theVisitfuture.ca/fishingforthefuturewww.fisheriescouncil. to learn more.
PLAN AHEAD Irregular meal patterns and skipping meals can cause fluctu ations in tiredness and decrease energy levels. “If you are going on a long journey, take snacks that will support energy and concentra tion, such as a piece of fruit and some nuts or some hummus and oatcakes,” she advised. “For road trips, take a cool bag or box and prepare a tasty salad that can easily be eaten with just a fork. These can be loaded with healthy salad items, grated carrot, peppers, quinoa and pro teins such as chicken or—Reuterstuna.”
GENERATIONSUPPORTINGBUILDINGfisheriescouncil.ca/FishingForTheFutureCOMMUNITIES.FAMILIES.AFTERGENERATION. © KALI NINE LLC
PACK SANDWICHESSOME
It’s a great idea to make sandwiches if you are going on a long drive or journey—just be sure to increase the nutritional value where possible. “Aim to make or buy sandwiches with wholegrain bread or a wholemeal wrap, rather than white bread, as this will provide more consistent energy. Try not to overload on starchy carbs as these can make you feel sleepy. A definite no-no if you are driving,” she continued. “If you buy a packet sandwich, choose wholemeal bread and try taking away a slice of bread from each sandwich and putting it back together with maximum filling but less bread.”
Five Ways to Eat Well While Travelling
© PEXELS/KETUT SUBIYANTO FOOD HEROES & FEEL GOOD RECIPES ADVERTORIAL globalheroes.com September • 2022
How Canadian Fishing Companies are Supporting their Communities
FOOD FOR FOCUS What you eat can impact your concentration levels, so whether you’re getting behind the wheel or looking after children on a flight, you need to keep your wits about you.
Alongside packing and jet lag, the food available at airports and on the road can be a bit of a downer and really affect the way you feel throughout your journey. Now that restrictions have eased in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are keen to get travelling again.
If you are road-tripping, be careful not to eat and drive at the same time. “If you eat and drive, you are more likely to eat quickly, which can lead to compromised digestion,” she said. “Digestion starts with chewing, if you are rushing to eat the food, it won’t be well digested, so take a break and stop to eat.”
“Quick snack foods are often chosen for car journeys or at air ports and train stations, but foods like this tend to be highly refined, sweet, and lacking in nutrients, so they may lead to poor blood sugar balance,” noted Delmar-Morgan “This in itself may cause poor con centration and feelings of fatigue, which won’t help your energy levels or focus when travelling.”
It can be very tempting to hit the airport bar before a flight, but drinking alcohol may actu ally be becomealcohol“Evencounterproductive.asmallamountofwillcauseyoutodehydrated,which can ultimately make jet lag worse and possibly cause constipation if you are flying long-haul. This will leave you feeling uncom fortable,” the expert explained. “Alcohol affects sleep patterns, making it harder to adjust to a new time zone. Water is the best thing you can drink both before and during a flight.”
Fishermen, fisherwomen, and processors provide food for ta bles worldwide, but more im portantly, they also support the communities and families they care about. For many, fishing is a way of life that extends beyond the waters and into the hearts of their communities and homes. Ocean stewardship and sustain able fishing are what make the Canadian fishing industry a valuable long-term livelihood, generation after generation.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, tahini, brown sugar, water and apart, onto two parchment pa per-lined, rimmed baking sheets. Lightly press down using your finger on each cookie to help with even spreading.
PIZZA Go ahead—tell the kids they can have pizza for breakfast with
SUGARS, 5 G©PROTEIN.IMAGESCOURTESY OF EGG FARMERS OF ONTARIO FOOD HEROES & FEEL GOOD RECIPES ADVERTORIAL September • 2022
24
them! SERVES: 2 • PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES • COOK TIME: ABOUT
NUTRIENTS PER SERVING (1/18TH RECIPE 1 COOKIE): 280 CALORIES, G TOTAL FAT, MG SODIUM, G CARBOHYDRATES, G FIBRE, G
they will
Don’t forget to end their day with the perfect after-school snack. They worked hard, so treat them to delicious Chocolate Tahini Cookies . Don’t forget to treat yourself either with this sophisticated addition to your cookie jar!
Did
delicious English Muffin Breakfast Pizzas. They will have
Back-to-School Blues With Eggs
DIRECTIONS
For these recipes & more visit getcracking.ca The perfect after-school snack, made with fresh Ontario eggs. For the smart cookie in your life!
INGREDIENTS
REAL FARMERS. REAL RECIPES.
ENGLISH MUFFIN
CHOCOLATE TAHINI COOKIES
12
170
• PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES • COOK TIME: 10 MINUTES PER SHEET
Tip: Any runny almond butter or run ny peanut butter can be used in place of tahini. Tip: Cookies will keep in an airtight container for up to one week.
2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour 1 tsp (5 mL) baking soda 1 tsp (5 mL) kosher or sea salt 4 egg yolks 1 cup (250 mL) granulated sugar ¾ cup (175 mL) tahini ½ cup (125 mL) packed brown sugar 2 tbsp (30 mL) water 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract 2 bars (100 g each) good quality dark chocolate, chopped 1 bar (100 g) good quality milk chocolate, chopped flaked sea salt or kosher salt
Beat the
2
MINUTES • BAKE TIME: ABOUT 13 MINUTES INGREDIENTS 3 eggs • 2 tbsp (30 mL) milk • 1 tsp (5 mL) butter • 2 whole wheat English muffins ¼ cup (60 mL) marinara sauce • ½ cup (125 mL) shredded Cheddar cheese • 1 small pepperoni stick, thinly sliced Fresh basil for garnish (optional) DIRECTIONS 1 Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside. 2 In a small bowl, whisk eggs with milk. 3 In a small skillet, over medium heat, melt butter and pour in egg mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold and flip 54 NUTRIENTS PER SERVING (½ RECIPE): 480 CALORIES, 27 G TOTAL FAT, 940 MG SODIUM, 33 G CARBOHYDRATES, 5 G FIBRE, 10 G SUGARS, 27 G PROTEIN. EXCELLENT SOURCE OF VITAMIN A, THIAMIN, RIBOFLAVIN, NIACIN, VITAMIN B12, PANTOTHENATE, MANGANESE, SELENIUM AND CALCIUM. GOOD SOURCE
YIELDS: 20 TO 24 COOKIES
If school is the foundation of knowledge, then a healthy breakfast could be consid ered the foundation of learning! There’s no denying that a nutritious breakfast fuels student learning, so we’ve got the perfect right path this September—eggs! you know that fresh, delicious eggs are produced by more than 500 egg farm fam ilies, right here in Ontario? Eggs are packed with protein along with 13 vitamins and day with eggs, not only will it keep them going until break, the choline found in eggs plays a role in healthy brain development andOntariofunction.egg farmers follow strict onfarm food safety and animal welfare programs to make sure your family has high-quality eggs to get them headed off to school. The best part is that eggs in Ontario go from the farm to the grading station, to the grocery store in only four to seven days—now that’s fresh! BREAKFAST these as much fun helping to make them as eating 5 OF VITAMIN E, VITAMIN B6, FOLATE, MAGNESIUM AND IRON. www.getcracking.ca/recipes/english-
4 Bake one sheet at a time for 10 min utes or until bottoms are light golden colour. Let baking sheets cool on wire racks for 3 minutes. Sprinkle lightly with salt while still warm. Transfer cookies to racks; let cool completely.
OR
ROCKY ALBERTAMOUNTAINS,ANDB.C. One of the most known landmarks is the Canadian rocky mountains, spreading across Alberta and British Columbia. Not only are the mountains known for their beauty, but they are also known for their focus on sustainability. Canada’s west coast, Alberta in particular, is leading the country in sustainability. By focusing on sustainable practices for day-today life, the provinces also put an emphasis on sustainable tourism for those coming to visit. With a visit to the rocky mountains, enjoy a low-impact trip like Banff Adventures’ horseback riding trips within Banff National Park. The activity gives a unique look into the region’s natural beauty, designed to give you a taste of what Banff’s original settlers experienced more than 200 years ago. The region is an adventurers paradise: offering hiking tours in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding slopes in the winter.
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OLD QUÉBEC, QUÉBEC Known for their sustainability efforts for more than a decade, Québec is striving to offer responsible travel options for tourists entering the region. The Government of Québec put out an action plan for how they would emphasize sustainable tourism from 2020 to 2025, which included sustainable transportation, supporting businesses' response to climate change, and continuing to develop natural areas across the province. Visit Old Québec and be immersed in historic streets and quaint shops. Old Québec offers a variety of sustainable transit options, including buses, bike rentals, electric cars, and tours to go along with any sustainable option you choose. The city boasts nearly 400 kilometres of bike paths and corridors, allowing the region to be explored through the view of a local. ALBERTA ROCKY MOUNTAINS © LACEY GILMOUR/TRAVEL ALBERTA OLD QUÉBEC © UNSPLASH/SONDOCE WASFY
© CELESTINE AERDEN/TRAVEL
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Situated off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, Fogo Island is a quaint town that boasts luxury and sustainability. A stay at Fogo Island Inn allows you to enjoy picturesque views of the ocean, and if you’re lucky, see the northern lights. Fogo Island Inn is a one-ofa-kind award-winning luxury property with 29 unique rooms and suites, each with floor-toceiling windows that open onto theBuiltocean.on the principles of sustainability and a true love and respect for nature and culture, Fogo Island Inn offers a holistic immersion into community development and culturalWorkingpreservation.alongside local charities and sustainability practices, Fogo Island Inn is seen as a community asset. All operating surpluses are reinvested to help secure a sustainable and resilient future for Fogo Island and contribute to the local and global economy.
UCLUELET, B.C. Located on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, and ranked 45th on Big 7 Travel’s list of 50 best ecofriendly places to visit in 2022 is Ucluelet, British Columbia. In March of 2019, Ucluelet adopted its first climate action plan, setting its targets for 100 per cent renewable energy and an 80 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. In March of 2022, working towards that goal, they put a ban on single-use plastics, and continue to work towards achieving their goal by 2050. With a visit to Ucluelet, enjoy a sustainable stay at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort. In 2021, the resort began its journey to become a zerowaste hotel. Joining forces with the Vancouver Island Green Business Collective, Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has removed single-use plastics, implemented natural and locally made cleaning products, and so much more to encourage their guests to travel sustainably.
sustainableEdmontontourism.ishome to an abundance of national parks, including Elk Island National Park, which was established in 1906 as Canada’s first federal wildlife sanctuary. The national park is home to herds of free roaming bison, deer, and elk—and protects endangered habitats and species in Canada.
EDMONTON, ALBERTA Last summer, Edmonton became the first city in western Canada to join the Global Destination Sustainability Movement, a global index that tracks participatingAmericansecond2021,surroundingoptionsenvironmentallyhasinitiative,tourismbecomesustainabilityenvironmentalinabidtoamoreattractivedestination.SincetakingpartinthisEdmonton,Albertaheighteneditsfocusonfriendlyinthecityandareas.InOctoberEdmontonwasrankedinparticipatingNorthcitiesand20thinlargecitiesfor
The two restaurants at Manoir Hovey are based on a culinary philosophy that celebrates the diverse and fresh ingredients from the region’s lakes, rivers, forests, and fields. Experience fine dining in our gastronomic restaurant Le Hatley, which reflects the chef’s passion for the land’s history. Chef Alexandre Vachon brings nature to your table and concocts a refined local cuisine that pays homage to our FrenchCanadian heritage and the producers around the province. Our bistro, Le Tap Room, welcomes you in a relaxed atmo sphere with our seasonal menu and local flavours, including hon ey made in-house by our bees. Enjoy the stunning sunset view from our terrace overlooking the lake and hills as you treat yourself to the off-menu lobster roll or cozy up with a glass of wine by the 10,000-brick fireplace inside.
THE NEXT INDESTINATIONWELLNESSCANADA Bliss out and relax at our brandnew world-class spa, set to open its doors this upcoming spring. This remarkable addition to our historic resort features an infinity pool, open year-round, that allows you to experience rest and peace of mind as you take in the panoramic view of Lake Massawippi and sur rounding hilly forests. The holistic thermal circuit will also feature hot tubs, a steam room, a dry sauna, a cold basin, a variety of treatment and relaxation rooms with lake view and a show er experience with Himalayan salt scrub. Manoir Hovey is becoming the newest destination for wellness in North America. We invite you to make unforgettable memories at Manoir Hovey. ManoirHovey.com DISPLAY OF FOLIAGE AROUND THE LAKESIDE PROPERTY AT MANOIR HOVEY © COURTESY OF MANOIR HOVEY
FALL-COLOURED
ALLIE MURRAY Filled with natural beauty, the coastlines and mainland of Canada have endless areas waiting to be explored.
REFINED INSPIREDNATURE-CUISINE
Surrounded by three oceans, filled with more lake area than any other country, and home to some 50,000 islands, Canada is an adventurer's paradise. Ranked ninth in the world for sustainability by Green Living Rankings, Canada is putting its focus on sustainable tourism, encouraging all tourists to travel with intention and kindness.
FOGO ANDNEWFOUNDLANDISLAND,LABRADOR
On Big 7 Travel’s ranking of the 50 best eco-friendly places to visit in 2022, Fogo Island came in 46th!
Discovering Sustainable Travel in Canada
EXCITING PLACES TO EXPLORE Enjoy a plethora of activities and discover the region’s very best, including historic biking and hiking trails. Unwind in the property’s English gardens, walk to our private beach for a canoe ride or check out our lakeside vin tage tennis clay court. Start your day with our quality coffee from a local micro-roaster or opt for a refreshing experience in one of the many breweries in the area. The Eastern Townships is a won derful foodie destination with an impressive selection of artisanal cheese and wine producers scat tered throughout the region. Make long-lasting memories as you take in the starry night in the first international dark sky reserve just a drive away. Then finish your day with a nightcap in the soothing atmosphere of our memory-filled library that has kept much of its original decor where it has hosted presidents, writers, art ists, and many more over decades of rich history.
Built in 1900 and family-run for the past half-century, Manoir Hovey is a historic five-star lakeside Relais & Châteaux estate with a gastronomic restaurant and bistro. A scenic hour drive east of Montréal, in North Hatley, one of the most picturesque villages of the Eastern Townships, the property sits on 30 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and birch forests along the serene shores of Lake Massawippi. With authentic architecture and elegantly appointed lakeside rooms and suites supplemented by panoramic vistas of gardens and rolling hills, Manoir Hovey is surrounded by robust trees with dense foliage that turns gold, red and orange in the fall, displaying one of nature’s most stunningRecentlyspectacles.named #1 Best Resort Hotel in Canada for the second consecutive year by the esteemed Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, Manoir Hovey creatively marries contemporary luxury, unparalleled service and old-world charm. Manoir Hovey is your ideal destination for a memorable and peaceful getaway, rewind time in this enchanting setting and experience the grandeur of long ago.
RESPONSIBLE FASHIONISTA
TECHNOLOGY HAS ADVANCED, FASHION CAN, TOO!
EVERYDAY LUXURY RIONA’s new collection focuses on bold and inviting colours mixed with the elegance found in minimalist designs. With a range of hand, crossbody, mini and satchel bags, totes, pouches, wallets, card holders, key chains, and coin purses to choose from, RIONA is sure to match one’s taste and style. There’s a RIONA item for every occasion! The Bianca handbag embodies elegant luxury, featuring a classic design complemented by golden accents and enough space for all of one’s favourite daily essentials. Destined for a casual night out, the Samantha crossbody bag is accented with gold-toned zinc hardware that never tarnishes, always looking fresh and new. Evoking imagery of another era, the Samantha crossbody is both timeless and chic. It’s a perfect addition for a wedding, anniversary, or any occasion. The RIONA collection is featured exclusively at Bentley, and with 160 stores across the country, and online at: shopbentley.com Finding the perfect RIONA accessory has never been easier, or more fun.
RIONA is not only eco-friendly and stylish, it also integrates advanced safety and security features. RIONA accessories come equipped with RFID (radio frequency identification), an electronic security technology that is integrated into the card slots of RIONA wallets, as well as the interior zipper pockets of RIONA handbags. When a would-be thief attempts to electronically scan or skim a person’s credit card or other personal data from their wallet or purse, RFID technology blocks the signal keeping credit card and other personal data safe.
RIONA BIANCA HANDBAG RIONA CROSSBODYSAMANTHABAG CROSSBODY BAG Vegan, Eco-Friendly RIONA Bags
For those looking for beauty and style without compromise, RIONA has become the go-to brand. Designed in Montréal, Canada, environmentally conscious and PETA approved, RIONA is a beau tifully designed, colourful collection of all-natural, 100 per cent vegan, animal-friendly handbags, and accessories. In these uncertain times, we want to ensure we are spending responsibly and sup porting environmentally conscious brands. Our complete look tells a story about who we are and who we aspire to be—sometimes the finishing touch defines who you are. Complete your look with style without breaking the bank. You can be responsible and look amazing!
RIONA’s fresh designs and style-driven accessories give back to our planet in an ethical and sustain able way. A beautiful purse no longer requires the use of traditional leathers, animal skins or fur in its construction. With today’s technologies, what used to be made using leather, can now be created using friendly materials. Instead of traditional leather, RIONA products are sourced with a top-quality, biodegradable fashion tech nology called polyurethane. Also known as PU leather, polyurethane is ultra-durable, flexible and a long-lasting leather alternative. Other planet friendly materials are currently in development. And while PU leather makes for the soft and durable exterior of a RIONA purse, the interior finish of a RIONA handbag is equally impressive. The monogram jacquard lining in a RIONA purse is made from 100 per cent recycled plastic bottles! Recreating timeless handbags, wallets, and accessories through the clever recycling of products is a sensible alternative for those focused on sustaining our environment. It’s the RIONA way.
SAFETY WOVEN INTO AN ECO STYLE
© IMAGES COURTESY OF BENTLEY CROSSBODYCELESTE BAG HANDBAGBIANCA HANDBAGBIANCA CROSSBODYSAMANTHABAG ADVERTORIAL RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER September • 2022
RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER September • 2022
• Apple picking with a slice of swoon-worthy apple pie on the side at Apple Land Station.
DAY AFTERNOONTWO ACTIVITY If you’re travelling in early fall, you’ll definitely want to spend some time enjoying Lake Huron and the St. Clair River on a sce nic boat tour with Huron Lady Cruises and Duc d’Orléans.
• The wide assortment of entertainment offered at Refined Fool Brewing Co.’s three locations, including live music, trivia and bingo nights, and at their newest location ‘Sports’, fun games like Bocce ball, cornhole, shuffleboard and more.
• Lola’s Lounge is famous for its Oysters Rockefeller and maple-glazed rack of lamb.
• Axe throwing at Valley Axe.
Once you have decided what you want to do, you’ll want to take a moment to plan out the most efficient driving route in advance. The distance between activities will vary depending on what activities you choose, but you’re in for a relaxing rural drive with plenty of pretty scenery along the way, no matter which way you’re headed. We can’t wait to see your adventures. Include #OntSouthwest in your social posts so we can follow along! Check out Ontariossouthwest.com for more trip ideas.
NIGHT ACCOMMODATIONSONE Leave some time in the after noon to book in promptly at check in to enjoy the amazing amenities at these one-of-a-kind places to stay:
• A stay in the light-filled loft or cozy tiny cabin at Fernwood Hills will put you smack-dab in the middle of the gorgeous fall foliage.
• Chef Mark Graham makes locally sourced produce and pro teins in his outstanding menu at the Clocktower Inn Bistro.
DAY TWO DAY TWO MORNING ACTIVITY
Off The Radar and Out Of The Tour Through Middlesex, Sarnia, and Lambton COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST
DAY ONE DINNER Settle in for a delicious dinner that will give you a true taste of the place you’ve been exploring all day.
• Strolling through row after row of all things green and gorgeous at Heeman’s, a massive indoor-outdoor garden centre with thousands of plants, great shopping, an on-site coffee bar, and its own cidery and meadery.
DAY ONE MID-DAY MEAL Farm fun in the morning calls for a hearty fuel-up to help you power through the afternoon. Restaurants to put on your radar include:
You can’t visit Sarnia without making a stop at Original Alberts for some of their legendary fries. This beloved fry business has been going strong for 90 years. If the lineup is longer than you’re willing to brave, head to Burger Rebellion for your burger and fry fix.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO LOOK FAR TO ADD MORE WOW TO YOUR ontariossouthwest.comWEEKEND
• Sarnia’s Café Mexico is another excellent option for tasty tacos, delicious mole chicken and outof-this-world tequila mussels.
• Rock climbing or laser tag at The Arena.
• Union Pub Company, where you’ll find excellent gastropub fare, including salads, bowls, pizza, and sandwiches.
• Glamping at Jireh Hills Homestead provides access to fun on-site activities like watching goats and alpacas play and exploring their Blue Heron Lagoon by paddleboat.
• Berry, sunflower or pumpkin picking at Kusterman’s Berry Farm in the early fall months.
• Laughing Goat Yoga Studio has an adorable on-site cottage that offers easy access to nearby hiking and biking trails.
DAY TWO DINNER For your evening meal, follow the Sarnia Lambton locals to one of the restaurants they love.
NIGHT ACCOMMODATIONSTWO Sarnia is home to several excellent hotel options, including Insignia Hotel, Hampton Inn by Hilton and Holiday Inn Express. If you’d prefer something that’s close enough to the beach to hear the waves crashing, Point Perfect in Point Edward has four gorgeous two-bedroom condos.
• Texas Longhorn Ranch offers gorgeous glamping in covered wagons, but that’s not all. You can also explore the shorelines of the Sydenham River on a horseback trail ride.
Ordinary: A Two-Day
DAY ONE DAY ONE MORNING ACTIVITY Middlesex County is home to several friendly farms and green houses that welcome guests with open arms. Best-bet picks to give you a taste of country life include:
S.A.M.Y.’S ALPACA FARM ©
• A hike through the Carolinian arboretum at Longwoods Road Conservation Area. This con servation area is also home to the Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum, an interactive muse um that preserves and interprets Haudenosaunee culture.
Start your second day with a scenic drive toward Sarnia’s stunning shorelines. When you arrive, grab a fresh cup of coffee to fuel a stroll around this beautiful city. Alternate Grounds’ Dockside location at Sarnia Bay Marina or Blackwater Coffee Co. are both perfect places to Exploringstart.anew city is a great time to try a new-to-you expe rience. Fun activities for the re mainder of your morning include: A look at the beautiful art exhibits at the Judith and Norman Alix Art Gallery.
• Spotting warblers, sandpipers and falcons at Canatara Park, which also happens to be home to a best-in-class beach.
• Rusty Wrench Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a delicious selection of pub fare favourites in addition to tasty craft beer. Fat Olive, for a scrumptious assortment of authentic Italian paninis and pasta dishes.
Discover just how much big ger and better movies are when enjoyed under the stars. The Mustang Drive-In, just outside London, is a local icon.
• An afternoon stroll along the Thames River at Komoka Provincial Park. The Komoka White Trail is a nine-kilometre loop suitable for all skill levels with picture-perfect river views.
DAY TWO EVENING ACTIVITY With Sarnia’s friendly, welcoming vibe, you’ll want to spend a few hours living it up like a local. Fun things to keep you busy after the sun sets include:
• A cuter-than-words can describe alpaca or goat experience at Sylvan Alpacas, S.A.M.Y.’s Alpaca Farm or Laughing Goat Yoga.
• A leisurely paddle at Fanshawe Conservation Area, where canoes and kayaks are available for rent on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until mid-October.
DAY AFTERNOONONE ACTIVITY Middlesex County has several gorgeous parks and conservation areas that make it easy and fun to sneak in some after-lunch exercise:
• Tia’s Place uses an ever-chang ing selection of local produce in authentic Portuguese favourites.
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Exploring the road less travelled can be a tall order for those with limited vacation days. Fortunately, with a little advance planning, it’s possible to pack a whole lot of fun into just two days. It starts with picking a destination that doesn’t take too long to reach. This two-day itinerary showcases a scenic spot that’s just a short drive from Toronto that will make you feel like you’ve escaped to another world.
• District Beta’s blast-from-the-past Arcade Bar featuring retro and current video games, virtual reali ty fun, and a fully stocked bar.
DAY TWO MID-DAY MEAL
DAY ONE EVENING ACTIVITY
LOLA’S LOUNGE © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’SADVERTORIALSOUTHWEST RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER September • 2022
• For fine Mexican cuisine, Mexican and craft beer, and delicious margaritas, head to Point Edward’s Los Puntos Cantina.
The Clocktower Inn has beautiful rooms and suites steeped in history that are just steps away from the shops of downtown Strathroy.
RIDGE ESTATE WINERY
DANCING VINEYARDSWALLOWS Essex county’s newest and smallest winery, lets nature take the lead in guiding their wines, allowing each wine to be wholly itself. On each year’s label, they share original art work depicting swallows in flight.
Norfolk County is situated along the North Shore of beau tiful Lake Erie, just two hours from Downtown Toronto. With a landscape dominated by Carolinian forests, pristine farm lands, and some of Ontario’s best beaches and parks, Norfolk has become a favourite destination that is highly accessible. The wineries of Norfolk County form part of the South Coast Wines region, a stunning area with ten celebrated wineries, all producing fabulous, award-win ning wines that truly reflect the history and character of the region. Add to that Norfolk’s deeply rooted agricultural his tory, and visitors soon find that it’s not just local grapes that help Norfolk stand out. Fresh fer mented hard ciders and excep tional craft-brewed beers and spirits result from an exquisite bounty of hops, apples, and other fresh ingredients.
SIP AND SAVOUR AT FRONT ROAD CELLARS At Front Road Cellars, the insis tence upon only the best for their wines begins in the field, where premium fruit and grapes of the highest quality are bathed in Southwestern Ontario sunshine. With minimal intervention in the cellar, the winemaking process lets each fruit express its true charac ter. Whether sipping a pint of cider while grilling dinner on the back deck or pouring your new favourite red for friends, every sip is meant to be savoured and experienced.
TRADITION, NATURE, AND INNOVATION AT ALTON FARMS ESTATE WINERY
Over in Grand Bend, Dark Horse Estate Winery is home to premium wines and breathtaking views—a perfect combination in a picturesque location. Cozy up around the fire on the 85-acre vineyard for an evening glass of wine with your significant other to commemorate a perfect getaway to Sarnia-Lambton, or watch the sunset along Ontario’s Blue Coast, just a short distance from Lake Huron. With VIP tasting tours, premium events space, oneof-a-kind architecture, and a wide selection of perfectly aged wines,
South Coast Wine Region Blue Coast Wine Region
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SHALE
VIEWPOINTE ESTATE WINERY An ideal place to gather with family and friends and enjoy Essex County’s fine wines and culinary diversity.
Explore and indulge in all the wonders of the Sarnia-Lambton wine region, starting with an unforgettable outing with family and friends at Shale Ridge Estate Winery in Thedford, the region’s newest winery. Sip wine while sitting back in suspended swing tables overlooking the rural SarniaLambton landscape, or enjoy a taste of adventure with a horseback and wine tasting tour through the rolling hills surrounding Shale Ridge Estate Winery.
Dark Horse Estate Winery is your perfectly curated getaway in Sarnia-Lambton.Ontario’sBlue Coast-Lambton County is earning a name as the destination to visit and taste a variety of new drink creations, from award-winning wine to craft-brewed beer, hard cider, and mead. Experience every corner of the region with a trip down The Cheers to the Coast Drink Trail, which shines a spotlight on the many award-winning talents of Lambton County, with 14 locations to explore. Come and sip, savour, and let your taste buds decide on your favourite.Tolearn more, visit: ontbluecoast.com
Experience the perfect beach day along Ontario’s Blue Coast in Sarnia-Lambton, where breathtak ing waterfront views and a bustling food scene await you, inspired by the laid-back coastal lifestyles in Lambton County. The region is home to three emerging wineries, each of which boasts a unique adventure for every kind of getaway, from horseback riding to scenic walking trails, each made better with award-winning wines and a premium waterfront food scene.
A ROAD TRIP YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH
COLIO ESTATE WINERY One of Ontario’s first wineries and a must-visit location for those who want to experience a taste of history.
Essex Pelee Island Coast Wine Region
Award-Winningexplore.norfolktourism.caDiscoverNorfolk’sWines on the or at
A COZY GETAWAY AT DARK HORSE ESTATE WINERY
HISTORY AND CHARM AT BURNING KILN WINERY Situated on a former tobacco tract and overlooking the UNESCO World Biosphere of Long Point, Burning Kiln Winery has been built to preserve its historic charm. Its original wooden structure is part of the experience, where visitors can view much of the operation from behind giant, contemporary glass walls. Inside, a wonderfully functional, modern, working win ery shares its winemaking secrets. Enjoy tasting award-winning VQA wines year-round in this unique and picturesque location.
RIDGE ESTATE WINERY © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST © COURTESY OF TOURISM WINDSOR ESSEX PELEE ISLAND © PEXELS/JILL WELLINGTON FRISKEY BEAVER © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST DARK HORSE ESTATE WINERY © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST © COURTESY OF TOURISM WINDSOR ESSEX PELEE ISLAND ADVERTORIAL RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER September • 2022
SPRUCEWOOD SHORES ESTATE WINERY Ontario’s only beachfront winery, complete with warm hospitality, expansive natural settings, and picnic lunches.
Get back to nature with a stroll through Alton Farms, exploring the walking trails that wind through the vineyard. Excite your tastebuds as you sample wine and food pairings from local chefs and participate in vineyard events like the annual Fall Grape Stomp. With over 17 wines, Alton Farms has something for those new to wine and those with the most discerning taste buds.
COOPER’S HAWK VINEYARDS The perfect place to enjoy a glass of award-winning wine, surrounded by beautiful views of the vineyards, wildlife, and majestic sunsets.
VIVACE ESTATE WINERY Located in the historic town of Amherstburg, Ontario, is a re markable experience of vine-towine excellence. To make the most of your ad venture, plan a fall road trip using the Windsor Essex Digital Itinerary Builder and create a custom plan based on your interests, budget, trav el dates, and everything in between. When you visit make sure you register for your My Happy Place Pass at myhappyplace.ca for instant rewards at 110+ Certified Happy Places across the region plus score free gift cards the more you explore. Use the pass to guide you across Windsor Essex and check in at lo cations as you visit to get instant offers (at participating locations) and points at each stop. Make the most of your stay with a luxurious night at one of the unique stays including Magno lia Ranch Bed & Breakfast located in the heart of wine country, The Grove Hotel on beautiful Main Street in Kingsville, or The Walnut Grove B&B for a romantic night you won’t soon forget! To learn more, visit: visitwindsoressex.com/wine
Welcome to EPIC Wine Country. With 18 waterfront wineries along Lake Erie North Shore, including Ontario’s only beachfront winery and the Pelee Island Winery & Pavillion, Essex Pelee Island Coast Wine Region has wine and food pairings for every set of tastebuds— and you can try them all. With an EPIC Tasting Pass, you can experience tasting sessions at eight participating wineries:
Experience the wines of ONTARIOSOUTHWEST
ADVENTURESFAMILY-FRIENDLYATSHALE
LEGACY AND HEART AT INASAPHERE WINES At Inasphere Wines, on the shores of Lake Erie, you are guaranteed to find quality home-grown flavours and experiences to remember. The family-run winery is committed to a legacy of growing Ontario produce and estate grapes with passion and heart. With grape varieties including Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio, combined with a uniquely breathtaking view of Lake Erie, Inasaphere Winery is a must-see stop on your wine tasting adventure. Between sips, explore beautiful beaches, meandering bike trails, fresh fruit and vegetable stands, and a vi brant culinary scene. All of the win eries in the area can be found on the Toast the Coast Trail, a self-guided trail that spans three counties on the north shores of Lake Erie. To learn more, visit ontariosouthcoastwine.com
OXLEY ESTATE WINERY Known for its small lot, fruit-for ward wines, and delicious locally sourced foods, is located in the scenic and historic hamlet of Oxley on the north shore of Lake Erie.
ONTARIO’S wine industry is growing and maturing with each passing year. This is especially true in Ontario’s Southwest, home to three wine regions, each with its own charms and unique experiences. Fall is the perfect time to plan a wine-tasting adventure complete with local delicacies and breathtaking views of Ontario’s natural beauty. Leave behind the crowded and over booked spaces and take in the scenic charms and inviting warmth of the emerging wineries in Norfolk, Sarnia-Lambton, Essex County, and Pelee Island. All the wineries in Southwestern Ontario take advantage of a temperate climate, enhanced by the diversity of glacial soils and the moderating effect of the Great Lakes, to produce their unique wines. Celebrate Ontario’s Southwest with awardwinning wines that truly reflect the history and character of their region.
PELEE ISLAND WINERY Home to a 700+ acre farm in Canada’s warmest grape-growing region, has a winemaking history dating back more than 150 years and is a founding member of Sustainable Winemaking Ontario.
ontariossouthwest.com
Colombia’s Grand Return to Tourism
NACOGDOCHES—WHERE
THE PACIFICCOLOMBIAN Colombia’s best-kept secret lies in the Colombian Pacific, a megadiverse ecosystem where wild jungles collide with the ocean, humpback whales make epic journeys to give birth in its waters, and sea turtles nest on its vast empty beaches. On the shores, visit the city of Cali, known for its ancestral heritage, delicious cuisine, and musical rhythms that are famed around the world.
HISTORY MEETS HOSPITALITY VISITNACOGDOCHES.ORG
Discover Nacogdoches—The Oldest Town in Texas
Experience the majestic beauty of coffee-scented mountains, extraordinarily colourful villages, exotic birds, and flower-filled valleys of the Colombian Western Andes. Colombia is the land of the coffee bean, so a visit to the Coffee Region’s Cultural Landscape, a proud UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must. See how coffee beans are prepared, take in the stunning landscapes, and visit Coffee Park, a theme park with attractions dedicated to this essential Colombian produce.
The historic Andes, home to peaks, moors, valleys, and natural parks is a can’t-miss destination for history lovers. Marvellous colonial towns, museums, and myths of lost king doms will transport you to a time of legends and unparalleled beauty.
COLOMBIANAMAZON-ORINQUIA
THE CARIBBEANCOLOMBIANGREATER
MUSEUMS LANDMARKSHISTORICALAND With its vast history, tourists are eager to visit Nacogdoches to ex perience the history first-hand. To discover the history, explore landmarks like the Old Stone Fort, Caddo Mounds, the Historic Town Center and more. At the Historic Town Center, you will discover more about the history and legends of Texas’ oldest towns, from stories of early settlers to historical artifacts. Similarly, the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site was the home of mound builders of Caddoan origin, the Indigenous community that lived in the area for 500 years before the region joined the United States. The park offers exhibits, a seven mile trail, Caddo dwellings and ceremonial areas, two temple mounds, a burial mound, and a village area.
A local legend says that the Caddo Indians founded Nacogdoches and the city was later seized and declared a province of Mexico from 1821 to 1836. There were many attempts to reclaim Texas for the United States, however it was the Battle of Nacogdoches in 1832 that was successful in Texas’ fight for independence. In 1845, Texas voters overwhelmingly approved a United States annexation proposal and Texas was admitted into the Union as the 28th state. Those who lived in the city during the war assisted in building up the infrastructure, and by 1880 there were brick buildings and the town’s first bank had been established. Thus leading to the modern day region of Nacogdoches, and is now considered one of the most historic towns in Texas and its rich heritage attracts visitors from around the world.
COLOMBIANWESTERNANDES
The heart of Colombia is an immense mega-diverse region of ancient forests, colossal skies and thunderous rapids. Nature lovers will enjoy taking in the wild landscapes, biodiverse estuaries, as well as jungles that are unexplored by tourists and full of ancestral Indigenous knowledge and living cultures, which make the region what it is today.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY From antiquing to nature works, Nacogdoches has fun for everyone. Experience the hospitality and charm while strolling the red brick streets of the historic downtown, hike trails, or break for tea in a Victorian mansion. For the little ones, take a trip to Ellen Trout Zoo that is home to some 500 animals, including exotic birds and mammals. For adults, visit one of the re gion’s many breweries or winer ies, including Fredonia Brewery, Front Porch Distillery, or Naca Valley Vineyard.
HISTORY OF TEXAS’ OLDEST TOWN
RAYE MOCIOIU
The world has reopened, but travel looks different than it did before the pandemic. Today’s travellers are looking for vacations with heart and sustainable trips that positively impact the community and the environment. More than a trend, sustainability in tourism has led destinations across the globe to rethink what they can offer tourists in a way that puts the environment first. Destinations like Colombia, rich in natural and cultural wealth, have recognized that it’s possible to prioritize tourist enjoyment andThroughoutsustainability.the pandemic, Colombia has been working tirelessly to prepare for the return to tourism, and sustainability has been top of mind. The second most biodiverse country on the planet, and one of 12 countries in the world with a Sustainable Tourism Policy, Colombia’s grand return to travel brings together six regions, allowing travellers a unique opportunity to explore the biodiversity, culture, archeology, communities, authenticity, and legacy of this beautiful country.
COLOMBIAN MASSIF Ancestral origins await in Colombian Massif’s mysterious moors, mountains, and volcanoes. The imprint of ancient civilizations is strongly felt in its archeological parks and the traditional knowledge of its Indigenous communities. End your trip with a visit to the historic and beautiful Popayán, known for its excellent cuisine and elegant white churches. These six regions, carefully curated in a way that inspires wanderlust, provide the best of both worlds: an unforgettable experience and the knowledge that you’re leaving nothing behind but footprints in the sand.
More than golden sands and coral reefs, this mustvisit destination is home to experiences and destinations rich in culture. Permanent snow, rainforests compassed by the sea, wind-shaped dunes, heritage towns, and exciting festivals are just a few of the fascinating and unforgettable things to do and see on your trip. Don’t miss visiting Cartagena de Indias, one of the most beautiful, wellpreserved cities in the Americas.
Find Your Family Fun Getaway in Michigan’s Coldwater Country Warm weather and water go hand in hand, and Michigan’s Coldwater Country is the place to be to get on—and in— the water! Located in southcentral Michigan, along the US-12 Heritage Route, the area is brimming with outdoor recreation, unique attractions, and a whole host of family fun. Soak in summer on one of the area’s 100+ freshwater lakes. One of the unique experiences in the area is the ability to travel from one lake to another through the chain of lakes. Coldwater Country is home to not one but two chain of lakes. Reel in the catch of the day, enjoy a leisurely pontoon ride, or kayak the Union City Heritage Water Trail, just one of nine water trails in Michigan. Hang out at the beach at The Aqua Pit, home of an inflatable aquatic playground featuring a multi-tiered obstacle course in the water, kayaking, paddle boarding and more. It’s tons of fun for the entire family! As the sunny days turn to cool crisp evenings, Coldwater Country offers additional experiences to get out and enjoy the fall colour. Take a ride on the rails and enjoy the stunning seasonal colour show aboard the Little River Railroad 110-year-old steam engine train. Explore timeless Victorian downtowns and the countless antique shops. Coldwater Country is also home to Michigan’s Antique Capital—Allen, with the largest concentration of antique dealers in the Midwest. The area is home to five stately antique malls including the Allen Antique Barn, boasting two floors of more than 25,000 square feet of treasures. For a magical experience, head to Colon to learn magic tricks, how to entertain a crowd, and catch a magic show. Home to the big three magic shops and countless activities, it’s no wonder they call Colon the Magic Capital of the TakeWorld.inaperformance at the Tibbits Opera House, home to professional touring events and the wildly popular Popcorn Theatre. As the sun starts to set, make your way to Coldwater Country’s 1,000 car, twin-screen drive-in movie theatre, the Capri Drive-In for a double feature. Family owned and operated since 1964, the Capri Drive-In offers a unique, and often nos talgic, drive-in experience. Grab a bite to eat at one of Coldwater Country’s locally owned diners, restaurants, or pubs. Enjoy the flavours, local scene, and hospitality of the area’s many destination restaurants. At the end of your fun-filled day and exciting night on the town, check into one of the many hotels to rest and relax. The hotels are just minutes from all the excitement andForattractions.additionalinformation on things to see and do, and where to stay, in Michigan’s Coldwater Country visit ColdwaterCountry.com.LAKE OF COLDWATER COUNTRY
Located in the heart of Deep East Texas, Nacogdoches is a 300-yearold city and a well-loved tourist destination by many. The region is known for its exciting events, the home of Stephen F. Austin State University, and many beautiful gardens, making it the garden capital of Texas. With a trip to the city, there are endless opportunities for travellers to discover the histo ry that fills the region, explore nature, and immerse themselves in Texan culture.
FISHING ON MARBLE
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BECOME A LOCAL Immerse yourself into Texan culture with a self-guided local tour. Choose from the Diedrich Rulfs Architectural Driving Tour, Fall Foliage Trials, Self-Guided Walking Tour, or Wine, Whiskey and Brew Tours. The tours show off the best Nacogdoches has to offer, and leave you wanting to discover more hidden gems. Plan your trip at visitnacogdoches.org or download the Visit Nac! app in Google Playstore and Apple App Store.
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Salisbury Beach © Bryan Eaton Anila Agha Exhibit © Bob Packert Peabody Essex Museum Courtesy of Addison Choate Inn Make Waves Salem Mural Artist Mr Cenz © Holly MisselwoodCourtesyPerry/NBCVBEvents Courtesy of Woodman's of Essex Breaching Whale Courtesy of 7 Seas Whale Watch Schooner Lannon @ Karen Nascembeni Haverhill Shoe © Nancy Gardella/NBCVB Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury © Sarah Musumeci Courtesy of Essex River Cruises & Charters Salem So Sweet Kids © JaredCharney RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER September • 2022
Does Back-to-School Anxiety Ring a Bell?
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“I am a student and I have social anxiety so school isn’t a really happy place for me. I hope I can work on my mental health issues and make next school year more tolerable.” —person contacting Kids Help Phone Did you know that anxiety is one of the top issues that young people talk to Kids Help Phone about? Add in the stress of returning to school yet again during the COVID-19 pandem ic, and youth in Canada face a backpack full of potential men tal health struggles this year. The back-to-school season can be an overwhelming time for young people — and the adults who care for them. Al though anxiety around returning to the classroom is common, it can feel harder to manage when compounded by the continued upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic. And for youth expe riencing mental health challenges — including depression, general ized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety, etc. — this time of year may be especially difficult. From January 2019 to June 2022, 71 per cent of service us ers said they shared something with Kids Help Phone they’ve never shared with anyone else. So far, in 2022, Kids Help Phone has supported young peo ple more than 1.9 million times. This makes it clear that innovative, accessible and equitable mental health resources are now more vital in this country than ever. For over 30 years, Kids Help Phone has been Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service of fering free, confidential support to young people in English and French. Our team of professional counsellors and trained, volun teer crisis responders are always available to listen, unlock hope and remind kids they’re never alone, from the living room to the classroom and beyond. During and throughout the school year, Kids Help Phone works closely with educators across Canada, who play an essential role in providing support, guidance and structure to young people. And over the past two and a half years, educators have continued to go above and beyond to support their students, academically and emotionally, setting kids up for success for generations to come. To support educators’ incredible efforts, Kids Help Phone developed Counsellor in the Classroom. This program pairs participating educators with a Kids Help Phone counsellor to promote the discussion of mental health among youth in their schools. Available to students in Grades 6 through 12 across Canada, the program aims to help youth: • gain a better understanding of mental identifyhealthhow/ where they can seek support • make a plan for how they can access support feel more confident in seek ing support “Thank you very much for the fabulous experience! Our coun sellor was so kind, positive and informative. She answered all of the students’ questions as if they were the best questions ever.” —participating educator, MayThrough2022 Counsellor in the Classroom, Kids Help Phone, together with devoted teachers, administrators, support staff and others across Canada, can connect with more youth from coast to coast to coast. So, if you’re an educator interested in participating in Kids Help Phone’s Counsellor in the Classroom Program during the 2022–2023 school year, you can learn more and register for a session at ofstress,adultsforicstartedKidsHelpPhone.ca/Classroom.Thoughgoingtoschoolhastoresemblepre-pandemtimesinareasacrossCanada,someyoungpeopleandthewhosupportthem,theanxietyanduncertaintythepastfewyearsremain.
Grown-up problems aren’t just for grown-ups. Every year, millions of kids reach out to us. Connect at
Some students may struggle with the discomfort of being away from home, feel fearful of social izing after being isolated for so long, find difficulty starting a new routine (or returning to an old routine) or have other concerns. You can help the young people around you as they learn to navigate the ups and downs of school life by sharing tips with them that may be helpful along their wellness journey, including:
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• mental health tips and info quizzes, games and activities • support forums and real-life stories
• being kind and patient with themselves • setting boundaries asking for help • Youetc. can also suggest Kids Help Phone’s resources as an option for young people to ex plore on their own, with you or with someone else they trust.
Phone is the ally to youth that many adults hoped for when they were growing up. We envision a future in which every young person in Canada is empow ered with the hope they need to thrive in their world. And we can’t do it without you!
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How You Can Support Student Mental Health This Year, All Year.
• crisis support • professional counselling youth mental health data insights • a community support service post-secondarydirectorystudent support • wellness support for all ages
Through Kids Help Phone, youth in Canada can access:
In the past two years, texters who responded to our survey during the back-to-school months reported feeling alone (20 per cent), worrying about someone getting sick (15 per cent) and something that hap pened in school (12 per cent) as their primary sources of distress.
As we prepare ourselves for the upcoming school year (what ever that’s like for students in your community), now’s the time to do your homework so that you can feel more confident and ready to support the young people in your life.
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To discover mental health resources, ways to get support and how to join our movement, you can visit KidsHelpPhone.ca
