The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health Launches its 10th Annual National Champions of Mental Health Awards Campaign

CAMIMH Calling for Submissions from Members of the Public

OTTAWA, March 9, 2012 /CNW/ - Today, the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is launching its tenth annual Champions of Mental Health Awards and seeking nominations from members of the public.  The annual Champions Awards bring together political decision makers, business leaders, members of the national media, sponsors and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals and organizations whose outstanding contributions have advanced the mental health agenda in Canada in the past year.

"This is a unique opportunity for Canadians from all regions and backgrounds to nominate an individual or an organization that they think has made a remarkable contribution to mental health in Canada," said Karen Cohen, CAMIMH spokesperson. "In unprecedented numbers, Canadians are coming forward to help advance the mental health agenda in this country and to reduce the stigma that has for too long been associated with mental illness.

"Canadians of all backgrounds are helping to advance the cause of mental health awareness in Canada," continued Cohen. "The plain reality is that one in five of us will suffer from mental illness in our lifetimes, which means the vast majority of Canadian families are affected in some way by mental illness. The Champions Awards is a flagship event that recognizes outstanding contributions to mental health and mental wellness in Canada."

The Champions Awards are held in Ottawa each year with awards given to individuals or organizations who have contributed significantly to Canada's mental health agenda.  Past Champions include The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, and Margaret Trudeau, among many others.  This year, the Champions Awards, presented by Bell Canada, will be held at the Château Laurier on May 7^th, 2012. Nominations are accepted in several categories, including private sector; public sector; research; community (individual), and; community (organization).

To nominate a Champion, please visit www.miaw.ca for details.  Submissions will be accepted until March 31^st, 2012.  The Champions Awards winners will be selected on April 10^th, 2012.

Established in 1998, the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is an alliance of mental health organizations comprised of health care providers and organizations representing persons with mental illness and their families and caregivers. CAMIMH's mandate is to ensure that mental health is placed on the national agenda so that persons with a lived experience of mental illness and their families receive appropriate access to care and support.

or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Kalene Tilson, Champions Awards Organizing Committee
Tel. : [phone] Email: [email protected]