Beginning in early spring 2016, the Mood Walks for Youth in Transition project will support community agencies to plan, implement and evaluate hiking groups that promote physical activity as a way to improve physical and mental health. The 41 participating agencies – selected by the Canadian Health Association (CMHA) – serve a wide range of youth needs and populations, including aboriginal youth, students, homeless youth, sexual assault survivors, and youth at risk of or living with mental illness.
The project is led by the CMHA Ontario, in partnership with Hike Ontario and Conservation Ontario and with funding from the Government of Ontario. Mood Walks staff provide training and support to participating agencies to help them launch educational hiking programs for youth, connect with local volunteers and community resources, and explore nearby trails and green spaces.
“Mood Walks has become an invaluable program and CMHA Ontario is proud to be associated with it,” CMHA Ontario CEO Camille Quenneville said. “Physical activity is an essential component of living a positive lifestyle, particularly when it comes to improving ones mental health.”
Mood Walks sites are located in communities across Ontario — from Ottawa to Windsor, Toronto to Thunder Bay, and many places in between. For a complete list of participating organizations, or for more information on how to get involved as a community partner or volunteer, visit www.moodwalks.ca.