Bow Valley High School (BVHS) is adding a splash of colour to its 13th annual Time for Hope event – and the concept of mental health.
On May 5, BVHS will host a five-kilometre community-wide colour run and walk where participants can expect puffs of coloured powder to be dumped on them at various points.
“Mental health and community were some of our two core values. It’s not just a Bow Valley issue, it’s not just a Bow Valley problem – it’s something the entire community can relate to and get behind. I think this event will be a great opportunity for everyone to rally together for mental health,” said Kassidy Gerhardi, one of the students behind the project.
“We thought it actually tackled a few aspects of mental health,” said another student organizer, Santana Shukin. “ We decided to get the physical aspect in there of doing a run or a walk and just getting outside. The other part was community and social so one of our goals is to get the whole community together for this event.”
The Lions Club announced its support last week and provided the students with a $1,000 cheque.
Amanda Madson, also a student on the planning committee for the run, said while the group is grateful for any funds donated, she’s happier to know that awareness is being spread.
“To me, yes, raising money is important and however much we raise is amazing. But I think just as important is getting the awareness out there,” she said. “In my mind, the money going towards it is just a bonus.”
The run starts and ends at the Mitford Ponds. Registration and sign in will go from 8 to 9:30 a.m. while the run will kick off at 10 a.m.
The proceeds from the run will go toward the new youth space at the Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and Area, as well as youth mental wellness initiatives.
To register online visit t4hcolourscochrane.eventbrite.ca
For more information, contact Scott Thompson at [email protected] or call the school at (403) 932-9005.
