Awards
Outstanding Community Volunteer award from CMHA BC, 2009
Adrienne Giffen, CMHA BC Board member presented Keli with her award which is a framed piece of art called "Leap of Faith" from Suzan Milburn, a woman from Vernon who before her depression had never before painted in her life.
Here are some of the remarks Adrienne gave at the AGM about Keli and why she was selected for the award.
The next award winners, for Outstanding Community Volunteer, are a group of moms. I am honoured to be part of this presentation as I share the experience of being of mom of a daughter who struggles with a mental illness as well.
We were all moved beyond belief at the 2009 Bottom Line Conference when we heard the stories of three Mom's: Ginny, Keli and Shainul who while supporting their children's struggles with mental illness were also working and balancing the demands of work and family life.
We heard the story of Keli Anderson's journey trying to find care for her young son who was struggling with severe episodes of depression and anxiety. Her journey put her in a position of having to give up her employment in order to get her child the help he needed and deserved. Keli with her partner Mom - Donna created the FORCE SOCIETY for kids mental health. Keli Anderson is the Executive Director of The FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health and the mother of two children with mental health challenges.
Keli has been instrumental in creating awareness and change regarding children's mental health, as well as providing support for thousands of families with children who have mental health challenges. Always the innovator and crusader, Keli advocated for a child and youth mental health plan in British Columbia and saw it not only get written and funded, but also implemented as the first child & youth mental health plan in Canada.
As a parent who leads the way for others who may not be able or willing to take on the huge responsibility required for influencing change, Keli strives to help others feel empowered and able to make their lives and others better.
Thank you Keli Anderson.
Here is a description of CMHA:
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) BC Division is a charity which promotes the mental health of British Columbians and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness through public education, community-based research, influencing of public policy, and direct services and supports. CMHA has 19 branches throughout British Columbia and a Division office. Nationally, it is one of the oldest voluntary organizations in Canada. To get involved or donate, or find your local branch, visit www.cmha.bc.ca or call 1-800-555-8222.