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Step Forward Health Society raises over $405K at sold-out launch

The new not-for-profit is committed to breaking down financial barriers to mental health care

A new non-profit organization dedicated to providing accessible mental health services in Delta was officially launched last weekend, raising over $405,000 to support its mission in the process.

On Saturday (Nov, 16), Step Forward Health Society held its sold-out “Launching Forward” celebration at The Red Barn at Southlands, where 120 supporters, local leaders and community members gathered for an inspiring evening focused on expanding access to mental health services in Delta.

The event surpassed its goal of raising $400,000, bringing in $405,400 and setting the stage for the society’s new programs and initiatives dedicated to making mental health support accessible to all.

“We are incredibly thankful for the outpouring of generosity from this community,” president Meg Neufeld remarked as the night concluded. “With these funds, we can expand our programs to serve more people in need, ensuring that mental health support is within reach for all.”

In addition to raising funds, the event served to introduce the community to Step Forward Health’s services and vision to promote mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well-being, according to a press release.

“Our mission is to remove financial barriers and offer mental health programs to individuals who otherwise couldn’t afford them,” Neufeld said in a press release before the event.

“We believe that mental health care should be accessible to all, and we’re excited to create a space that cares for the whole person — mind, body, and spirit.”

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According to the society’s website, Step Forward started as a subsidy fund within Alongside You — an integrated health clinic in Ladner founded by Meg and Andrew Neufeld — that from 2015 to 2022 provided over $500,000 in mental health services to the community.

Towards the end of 2022, Alongside You and long-time collaborator 140 Sports Association, a like-minded organization founded by Fred Wells to engage youth in mental health education and support through local youth sports teams, agreed that it made sense to join forces and merge the Step Forward Program with 140 Sports’ operations as a new registered charity.

The next year, 140 Sports Association was renamed Step Forward Health Society and the Step Forward Program was moved from Alongside You into the revamped non-profit, with an eye towards expanding both services.As stated in a press release ahead of last weekend’s event, Step Forward Health Society’s mission is to ensure that no one is turned away from receiving vital mental health support due to financial limitations.

With a multidisciplinary approach, the society integrates qualified mental health care, education, training and community partnerships to deliver holistic health services to individuals, couples, youth and families, all designed to be inclusive and affordable, the release states.

Through collaborative partnerships with local businesses, community organizations and clinical professionals, Step Forward Health strives to create a culture of open dialogue around mental health, dismantle stigma and foster a more supportive community.

Saturday’s launch event featured award-winning musician and community leader Warren Dean Flandez, who as the evening’s emcee kept the energy high as he shared his passion for breaking mental health stigmas and applauded the community’s commitment to supporting one another.

Guests heard heartfelt stories from people touched by mental health challenges, including a powerful speech from Fred Wells, co-founder of Step Forward’s 140 Sports program, who shared his journey supporting youth mental health in sports, moving the audience with stories of his daughters’ struggles and triumphs that underscored the importance of community and accessible mental health resources.

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“Man About Town” Fred Lee brought his trademark dynamic energy and wit to his role as auctioneer, and organizers credit him with contributing significantly to the evening’s success as his engaging presence entertained and inspired the audience, fuelling enthusiastic bidding that drove the campaign over its fundraising goal.

Auction items included a custom-built guitar by Andrew Neufeld, co-founder, CEO and clinical director of Alongside You, and a striking original painting by Meg Neufeld that sold for $8,000.

Those who attended the launch, which was co-ordinated by Jewel & Rose and FHM Events, were treated to a gourmet meal from Mario’s Kitchen, specialty mocktails from Roaming Spirits, and craft brews from Barnside Brewing.

During the event, significant contributions were announced from First West Foundation’s Envision Financial Community Endowment, Delta Community Foundation, Community Services Recovery Fund, Dobinson Family Foundation, The Harlow and Mary Ann Burrows Foundation, and the Delta Firefighters Charitable Society.

Lead sponsor Alongside You was recognized for its exceptional commitment to mental health services and volunteer efforts, with many of its staff among the more than 50 volunteers working that evening.

Organizers also thanked the Delta Firefighters Association, Tugo Travel Insurance, FlueVog Films, PLLR Lawyers, Sterling Notary, Indalma Creative, Richard Lowe of Jackson & Lowe Realtors, and Southlands Grange for their sponsorships. 

Soon, Step Forward Health Society will be launching programs for youth, women and children at risk, individuals with chronic pain and health conditions, people recovering from trauma and those with high-risk mental health conditions, plus affordable counselling available to Delta residents and beyond.

Those interested in learning more, or in supporting the society’s ongoing work by donating or volunteering, can learn more at stepforwardhealth.ca

SEE ALSO: Entries open for City of Delta’s 2024 Community Banner Contest



James Smith

About the Author: James Smith

James Smith is the founding editor of the North Delta Reporter.
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