The Canadian Mental Health Association-South Cariboo Branch (CMHA-SC) held its annual general meeting June 27.
Elected and returning to the board of directors for 2012/13 include Carrol Austin, Tom Bachynski, Brian Blake, Valinda Boyd, M-J Cousins, Didi Henderson and Dave MacLeod.
Newly elected directors include Jeanne Best, Sheila Dyck and Sarah Lymburner.
CMHA-SC president Cousins says recognition and a sincere thank-you was extended to Marianne Reid and Marie Weedon, two long-serving board members who are stepping down.
A certificate of recognition was also presented to Valinda Boyd for her hard work organizing the first CMHA-SC Community Bike Ride on June 24.
"Raising over $7,000, this ride is the branch's most successful fundraising event of the year," Cousins adds.
Certified general accountant Sandra Crocker presented the audited financial statements.
Executive director Maggie Patterson-Dickey presented the 2011/12 annual report, which outlined the highlights of a "very successful" year, with the National Mental Health Awareness Week held in May, October's Mental Illness Awareness Week and its corresponding Beyond the Blues (Depression and Anxiety Education and Screening).
Other programs highlighted included the Homeless Outreach Services, Supported Independent Living, drop-in programs and affordable family housing.
"These are all local examples of how CMHA-SC carries out the national vision of "Mentally Healthy People in a Healthy Society," Cousins says, adding everyone can help and the annual membership is $20.
Contact the CMHA-SC at 250-395-4883 for more information.