CHAIRPERSON’S MESSAGE

  “A desire to be in charge of our own lives, a need to control, is born in each of us.  It is essential to our mental health and our success, that we take control”.  Robert F. Bennett
    Good evening everyone and welcome to the Annual General Meeting of the Board for the Canadian Mental Health Association of Kings Branch.
  It seems only a short time ago that I accepted the position of Chair for the Board for CMHA.  I thought to myself, “What am I getting myself into” as I had just stepped out of my comfort zone.  During my journey this year, I encountered many new challenges, met new people and learned new things.  All the Directors, staff and clientele have been very patient, encouraging and taught me many things.  Thank you everyone.  I was very fortunate to attend The Inspiring Lives Luncheon at Pier 21 and a conference for the Mental Health Coalition of Nova Scotia about The Future of Mental Health. There I met staff from other branches of CMHA and other people who continue to work very hard to make a difference for people living with mental health issues. 
  We participated in Mental Health Week by having a booth set up at The County Fair Mall.  Thank you to everyone who helped put brochures together and worked at the booth.  There were several inquiries, but it seems that due to stigma, people are still afraid to ask questions about mental health.  We will persevere in educating people about the Mental Health community. Beverley Parsons represented our board at the Mental Health Strategy meeting.  This goal is to develop a Mental Health & Addictions Strategy for the province of Nova Scotia.  This information and questionnaire can be found online @ jessica.gilbert@gov.ns.ca  for anyone interested about what went on in the meeting.  The staff and Board enjoyed a BBQ and Christmas Party held at the home of Marilyn and Terry Hebb.  Thank you, Marilyn and Terry, for hosting these events.  In the fall, the Board gave a donation to sponsor a Red Tent on Parliament Hill.  This was to support the Red Tent Campaign Day of Action for National Housing.  We received finding from CHAD to give to youth who were in need.  The Western Kings 4-H Woodsman Team received a portion from the CHAD Funding.  They were going to a competition and were in desperate need of some equipment that needed replacing.  Somerset Elementary School was given a portion of the CHAD Funding to assist in a program to help youth Primary to Six in coping with stress.  The remaining of the CHAD Funding helped supply soccer gear to a family. 
  In November we moved our Branch from 49 Cornwallis St. Kentville, to a brand new building on 11 Opportunity Lane, Coldbrook.  This move presented many challenges which were easily overcome by the diligent efforts of our energetic and caring staff.  Everyone was concerned that we may lose clientele due to moving out of Kentville, but we are just as busy.  Thank you everyone, for making our move a successful one. 
  Melody Sanford was hired for the Lunch and Learn Program, which was a pilot project through the Department of Community Services.  The program finished up here, at the St. James Anglican Church.  Melody always drew a large group.  They enjoyed the crafts, parties, guest speakers, and lunch.  I had the honour of observing and helping out when I could.  I was so impressed on how everyone enjoyed each week and their willingness to always lend a hand.  The clientele helped Melody prepare the meal, set up tables, wash dishes, and clean up and many other things too numerous to mention.  It was amazing to watch the enjoyment they received from this program.  It was very sad to see it come to an end and she will be missed.  Employment Nova Scotia’s new contract allowed us to hire Christine Deveau as The Navigator.  She is assisting Michelle Ferdinand with her large case load.  They have been very busy and work well together.  They make a great team. 
  Our Board has grown this year with a few new Directors and a resignation.  I would like to take this time to thank everyone on the board and staff for your support and patience throughout my year as well as your ongoing devotion to The Board of CMHA.  You have helped me conduct our meetings in an efficient manor and I am very proud to represent you. Thank You. 
“Mental Illness is nothing to be ashamed of, but stigma and bias shame us all”.    Bill Clinton