You can support local resident Judy Brunton's "extreme passion" to raise money for youth mental health by shopping at the largest Shop 2 End Stigma event yet at the Newmarket Community Centre on Sunday, Nov. 2.
The self-proclaimed "avid fundraiser" for the local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has raised more than $85,000 over the last five years, thanks to the ongoing support of her local community.
Each year, she not only organizes this shopping extravaganza annually on the first Sunday of November, but she also participates in the annual 20-kilometre Mental Health in Motion (formerly the Ride Don't Hide) bikeathon for CMHA York and South Simcoe.
"This is a cause that is so close to my heart and an extreme passion of mine," she said.
"Last year, we raised the amazing amount of $9,000," said Brunton, as she readies for the fifth annual shopping event this year from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Riverwalk Commons community centre at 200 Doug Duncan Dr.
The event includes 40 vendors, as well as a "pampering area", silent auction with about 100 items, and delicious food, she said.
Local businesses have generously donated their services for the pampering area, which offers photography sessions, haircuts and/or styling, medium readings, massages, manicures and makeup. You can purchase tickets, which are $30 for each session, here.
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"Come out and enjoy the day," Brunton urged. "There is something for everyone."
Brunton said she was inspired to work relentlessly at raising funds for youth mental health in honour of several family members.
"My sister was diagnosed with her first mental illness when she was a young teenager," she said. "She is the main reason I do this fundraising in her honour, because she is so strong."
"Sadly, my family and I lost a cousin to depression, and my big brother just a year ago. I do this in memory of both those men who we lost way too soon."
She said she first began participating in the CMHA York and South Simcoe cycling fundraiser about six years ago "by accident", when she was looking for a rideathon she could take part in with her oldest son, who, at the time, loved riding his bike.
"We started riding when my oldest son was seven, and now my youngest son has also joined in the cause. Jacob and Charles are amazing riders who enjoy this family-friendly event each and every year," she said.
The money raised at the events and donations collected go toward youth programming, particularly the MOBYSS mobile walk-in clinic for youth aged 12 to 24, she explained.
The transformed RV is a friendly space where young people can access a nurse practitioner, peer support specialist and youth mental health worker.
"They can talk to the staff about mental, physical or sexual health issues and concerns. The appointments are 100 per cent confidential," she added.
"A number of youth have visited the bus while in an acute suicide state, and thanks to MOBYSS, those youth are still with us today. But this bus is a costly venture to keep running – every dollar helps," Brunton emphasized.
For more information about supporting Brunton, who is aiming to raise at least $20,000 in this year's ride, visit here.
