Services and programs have increased. So, too, has the team behind them.

The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District is experiencing significant growth as the need for mental health support increases and evolves. The organization reviewed the past year鈥檚 activities at its annual general meeting Tuesday, Sept. 26.

鈥淧rograms and services have expanded greatly, ensuring more individuals have access to mental health supports and services in a timely manner in our community,鈥� said Jodi Cunningham, chair of CMHA Vernon鈥檚 board of directors.

鈥淭he team has also grown significantly, and it is an honour to see the commitment and dedication of the individuals who serve our community so passionately, with integrity and compassion, creating space for all.

Among the highlights from 2022/23 are:

鈥� Opening of Albert Place II, a 29-unit, multi-generational housing complex;

鈥� Expansion of Care2Speak, a free and confidential support to health and community care workers in B.C.;

鈥� Increased participation in the national crisis line network;

鈥� Establishing a partnership with recovery centres to facilitate employment services;

鈥� Opening of the Youth Integrated Services Hub, which assists youth and families navigating mental health.

鈥淲e are seeing these visions come to fruition because of the hard work of our staff, volunteers and board, and the support of our community鈥� said Julia Payson, executive director.

鈥淲e embrace these visions because that鈥檚 what our clients need and want. We are committed to the people we serve. We also want to acknowledge the North Okanagan community for the support it provides CMHA.鈥�

Looking ahead to the upcoming year, Cunningham said CMHA will continue to advocate for the safety, security, and wellness of all individuals in the community.

鈥淚 am proud to stand with this organization as we challenge stigma and historical attitudes that negatively impact our society,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 have no doubt CMHA Vernon will continue to create positive changes within our community through the leadership and advocacy that are developed throughout our program and service offering.鈥�

During the meeting, Taylor Sheardown, a lawyer at Davidson Lawyers, was elected to the CMHA board as a new director.

Sheardown joins Cunningham, as well as directors Kyle Camalush, Tom Christensen, Richard Finn, Jennifer Guscott, Tom Nolan, David Penner, Dominic Scorah, Marilyn Scott and David Service.

Two directors retired from the board after many years of service. Scott DeLong stepped down from the board after seven years of service, and Twylla Genest retired from the board after nine years. Genest served as secretary of the board for many of those years and was recognized for her extensive contribution to the society.

To learn more about CMHA Vernon, visit .