In the spirit of the New Year and fresh starts, our January Charity of the Month is Jack.Org. Jack.Org focuses on mental health and mental health awareness. Amidst a pandemic, it's very easy to become consumed by anxiety and stress. However, with the proper resources, it is manageable and survivable.
Jack.Org is Canada’s only charity that trains and empowers young leaders to revolutionize mental health. They have globally recognized programs such as, Do Something, Be There, Jack Talks, Jack Chapters, and Jack Summits. Through these programs, young leaders are able to learn to identify and dismantle barriers to positive mental health in their communities. Additionally, these programs provide communities with valuable mental health resources so they can address mental health issues.
Canada has the 3rd highest rate of youth suicide in the industrial world and within Canada, suicide is the leading health-related cause of death amongst young people. Out of those who report, 1 in 7 young Canadians have suicidal thoughts and annually about 150 000 will act on these thoughts.
Jack.Org values putting youth first in that no one is better to advocate for youth mental health than the youth. They are inclusive and strive to be representative of Canada’s youth from coast to coast, committing to change when necessary. Jack.Org is impatient for change as mental health is the health issue of this generation and believe it needs to be a national priority. Lastly, Jack.Org is impact-focused. Their approach is built on solid evidence and so they believe if they are able to follow through they will be able to implement lasting change.
The Vision of Jack.Org is a "Canada without shame". They envision Canada will be a place where every young person is comfortable taking care of their mental health and are able to get the help and support they deserve. Studies show that youth are more likely to take advice from a peer as opposed to an adult. Thus, with adequate training and an appropriate platform for action, young people have the capacity to change the culture around mental health.
All donations go towards their incredible programs, such as Jack Talks and Jack Chapters, to uplift communities and address mental health issues. For more information or to make a donation, you can visit their website here.
