SPARK: Supporting Mental Wellness in Our Communities
During Mental Health Awareness Week, May 4-10, 2026 the Canadian Mental Health Association encourages everyone to connect—with our communities and with ourselves. What better time than now to introduce a long-standing committee within Prairie Mountain Health: SPARK.
Formerly known as the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee, the group has rebranded as SPARK — Suicide Prevention, Awareness, Resilience, and Knowledge, complete with a refreshed look and logo that reflects its ongoing commitment to community well-being.
The SPARK committee is made up of community members from Swan River, Roblin, Dauphin, and Ste. Rose. Members meet bi-monthly, working toward a shared vision of improving mental wellness and reducing suicide risk for individuals across the Parkland region.
Throughout the year, SPARK leads and supports a variety of initiatives that bring people together and promote mental health awareness. These include Blue Monday activities, Mental Health Awareness Week walks, virtual events for World Maternal Mental Health Day, as well as World Suicide Prevention Day activities such as Chalk the Walk and candlelight vigils.
Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week, SPARK members will be hosting events across the Parkland region, including:
- Roblin HERO Club – A community walk with refreshments and a discussion to follow, along with outreach activities throughout the week and a window display featuring resources from the Canadian Mental Health Association.
- World Maternal Mental Health Day
The mission of SPARK is to support and encourage individuals, families, communities, and professionals to achieve the best possible health and wellness. Through education and public awareness, the committee works to strengthen mental health promotion efforts and enhance suicide prevention across the region.
We all have mental health, just like we all have physical health, and our experiences shape how we understand and support one another. By sharing, listening, and strengthening connections, we build healthier communities where people feel supported, valued, and not alone.
For more information or to connect with a SPARK committee member, please contact Ashley Vandepoele at [email protected] or Olivia Acorn at [email protected]. SPARK is always looking to grow, and new members are welcome.
To learn more and access toolkits for Mental Health Week, visit the Canadian Mental Health Association website.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. You can call or text 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline by dialing 9-8-8, anytime, day or night.
Submitted by Kelly Lewis
SPARK Member
HOPE Community Coordinator
