Amidst the uncertainty and difficulty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations including WES for Youth Online have continued to offer essential services for young people in our local region and across Ontario.
Based out of Walkerton, Wellness & Emotional Support (WES) for Youth Online aims to provide wellness and emotional support for youth through online professional counselling. They provide free online counselling for young people between the ages of 13‐24.
While their services continue to be offered through these difficult times, the pandemic has impacted the organization’s ability to raise funds to support their programs and resources. The NWMO is pleased to offer a $2000 donation to the Youth Online Golf Classic, in support of the important services WES for Youth Online provides.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization has adapted their annual golf tournament to be held virtually. Golfers from across Ontario are invited to support youth mental health by submitting their scorecard from any golf course post play over the September 4-7 long weekend. Participants will be entered into a draw for a chance to win one of eight prizes, with a grand cash prize of $1,000.
“We are thrilled to have the on-going support of this collaborative organization and are appreciative of their meaningful partnership”, says Emma Martin, Community Relations Director at WES for Youth Online.
“We’re happy to support WES for Youth’s innovative virtual golf tournament fundraiser and contribute to the well-being of local youth, particularly during this difficult time”, says Cherie Leslie, Senior Engagement Advisor, NWMO.
WES for Youth Online was founded in 2012 by Jamie and Yolanda Cameron, after losing their son Wes, to suicide. Since March, the organization has experienced an all-time high with 346 new registrations.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on new challenges and stresses for youth. As such, WES for Youth Online has seen an increasing demand for alternative support systems such as free online counselling services,” says Martin.
Since March, the NWMO has responded to the global COVID-19 pandemic by supporting municipal and Indigenous communities involved in the site selection process.
source: media release, NWMO