Summary
The Rotary Club of Calgary West has received a heartfelt thank-you from McMan Calgary following the Club's $10,000 donation to its Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program. The contribution will help ensure youth and families can access life-changing mental health support regardless of their financial circumstances. Coming just days after guest speakers Simone Brown and Jennifer Topiwala presented on adolescent mental health, the letter reinforces the significant impact Rotary's investment will have on young people across our community.
Rotary Club Donation Helps Expand Access to Life-Changing Youth Mental Health Support
Just one week after welcoming McMan Calgary representatives Simone Brown and Jennifer Topiwala as guest speakers at our June 22 luncheon, the Rotary Club of Calgary West received wonderful confirmation that our Club's commitment to youth mental health is already making a meaningful difference.
In a letter dated June 29, McMan Calgary expressed its sincere appreciation for the Club's $10,000 donation in support of its Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program. The gift will help ensure that young people and families can continue to access this specialized mental health support, regardless of their ability to pay.
During their presentation to the Club, Simone Brown and Jennifer Topiwala shared the growing challenges facing adolescents and families dealing with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Jennifer explained how Dialectical Behavior Therapy equips young people with practical skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, resilience, and healthy communication, while Simone highlighted the importance of building strong community connections that foster healing and long-term wellbeing.
Their presentation gave members a deeper understanding of both the urgent need for accessible mental health services and the profound impact these programs can have on young lives.
In the letter, McMan described DBT as "one of the most effective interventions available" for youth experiencing emotional dysregulation, self-harm, and suicidal ideation, noting that for many participants the program becomes genuinely life-changing. The organization also recognized the Rotary Club of Calgary West's ongoing commitment to community wellbeing through investments that strengthen local organizations and the families they serve.
The Club is proud to partner with organizations like McMan that are creating healthier futures for children, youth, and families throughout Calgary. Supporting evidence-based mental health programs aligns with Rotary's commitment to improving lives, strengthening communities, and investing in opportunities that create lasting positive change.
This generous contribution, made possible through the Club's fundraising efforts, will help ensure that more young people receive the support, skills, and hope they need to thrive.